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Gamma Cephei, aka Errai, a future North Star
Gamma Cephei - or Errai - is a binary star system that will one day be Earth’s North Star. It's home to the 1st exoplanet ever discovered.
September 28, 2025
Thuban was the North Star for the ancient Egyptians
The North Star changes over time. Thuban was the Pole Star some 5,000 years ago, when the Egyptians were building the pyramids.
August 12, 2025
Eltanin and Rastaban, the Dragon’s eyes
These 2 famous stars shine down from the northern sky. Eltanin and Rastaban represent the fiery eyes of the constellation Draco the Dragon.
July 29, 2025
Alphecca, a jewel in Corona Borealis the Northern Crown
Alphecca. Gemma. Alpha Coronae Borealis or simply Alpha Cor Bor. They're all names for a single star, the brightest star in the Northern Crown.
May 30, 2025
Acrux is the brightest star in the Southern Cross
Acrux, also called Alpha Crucis, is the brightest star in the constellation Crux, the Southern Cross. And it is not 1, but 2 stars.
May 6, 2025
Bellatrix is Orion’s 3rd-brightest star
Orion's shoulder star Bellatrix has a name that means "female warrior." Bellatrix is one of the hottest stars you can see without optical aid.
November 24, 2024
Zubenelgenubi is the alpha star of Libra the Scales
Zubenelgenubi - Alpha Librae - is a double star, and is the second brightest star in the constellation Libra the Scales.
June 23, 2024
Tonight’s young moon emerges into the evening sky
The young moon will compete in brightness with several bright stars on the evening of May 9, 2024. Which will shine most brightly?
May 9, 2024
Cor Caroli, named for the heart of a king
Cor Caroli is a binary star and the brightest star in the northern constellation Canes Venatici, the Hunting Dogs. Its name means Heart of Charles.
April 24, 2024
Beta Centauri is one of the Southern Pointer Stars
Beta Centauri isn’t as famous as Alpha Centauri, but together, these brilliant Southern Hemisphere stars have inspired legends and guided mariners.
April 4, 2024
