40 and 41 Draconis form a double star system in the constellation Draco. Since they have fairly bright magnitudes and good separation, most observers with small telescopes should be able to split this pair. I suggest first-time observers first study their pale-yellow color. Some observers have noted they are a cream color.
Then, slew your telescope over to nearby Nu Draconis to see a pair that is sparkling white. Comparing these two star systems provides a nice study in color contrast.
My Observations
| Date | June 1, 2021 |
| Time | 10:45 p.m. |
| Location | Seattle, WA |
| Magnification | 145x |
| Scope | Meade 8″ SCT |
| Eyepiece | 14mm |
| Seeing | Average |
| Transparency | Average |
Tonight, I’m searching through a list of late spring objects I have yet to see. This is my first step into Draco. As an introduction to its treasures, 41 Draconis makes for a good find. The stars have a nice pale yellow hue. Some refer to these as cream colored. A third dimmer star lies nearby making a triangle shape in the eyepiece.
Key Stats
| Constellation | Draco |
| Best Viewing | Summer |
| Visual Magnitude | +6.3 | +6.0 |
| Absolute Visual Magnitude | +1.6 |
| Distance from Earth | 173 ly |
| Separation | 19″ | 1650 AU |
| Orbital Period | 18000 yrs |
| Milky Way Location | Orion Spur |
| My Viewing Grade | B+ |
Sources and Notes
Banner photo from the ESO Online Digitized Sky Survey.
Sketch by Wayne McGraw
AKA: SAO 8996
The Garden Astronomer 