Hidden among the stars of the northern constellation Draco lies a fascinating celestial object: RY Draconis (RY Dra). This carbon star stands out not only for its orange-red color but also for the unique processes happening in its atmosphere, making it a favorite among amateur astronomers and stellar enthusiasts alike.
What Is a Carbon Star?
Imagine a star that glows with a richer red than almost anything else in the sky. That’s what makes carbon stars so fascinating. Unlike most stars, which have more oxygen in their atmospheres, these rare giants are filled with extra carbon. The carbon combines with other elements to block out much of the blue light, leaving behind a deep ruby glow.
Variable Beauty
RY Draconis is also a variable star, meaning its brightness fluctuates over time. Its apparent magnitude ranges from roughly 6.0 to 8.0.
Locating RY Draconis
For skywatchers hoping to spot this crimson gem, RY Dra is conveniently located near Kappa Draconis, a brighter star that can serve as a guide. Positioned in the northern circumpolar sky, it is visible throughout the year from many northern latitudes, making it a reliable target for consistent observation. You’ll be able to see it with a larger pair of binoculars or a telescope.
RY Draconis may not be the most famous star in Draco, but its crimson glow and stellar secrets make it a remarkable object for anyone captivated by the night sky.
My Observations
| Date | July 3, 2023 |
| Time | 11:37 p.m. |
| Location | Seattle, WA |
| Magnification | 169x |
| Scope | Meade 8″ SCT |
| Eyepiece | 12mm |
| Seeing | Above Average |
| Transparency | Average |
RY Draconis appears smaller and not quite as red as UX Draconis, which I just observed a few minutes ago. It still makes for a lovely, colorful star with an orange hue, fitting for a night right before the Fourth of July.
Key Stats
| Constellation | Draco |
| Best Viewing | Summer |
| Visual Magnitude | Variable around +6.5 |
| Absolute Visual Magnitude | -1.52 |
| Distance from Earth | 1309 ly |
| Milky Way Location | Orion Spur |
| My Viewing Grade | B |
| Designations | RY Dra, HD 112559, HIP 63152, TYC 4168-885-1, Gaia EDR3 1678844308746410880 |
Sources and Notes
RY Draconis Star Facts , Distance, Colour, Size (Radius), Location and Others – Universe Guide. (2015, January). In Universe Guide. https://www.universeguide.com/star/63152/rydraconis
Ak, H., Albayrak, B., Aslan, Z., Demircan, O., Müyesseroğlu, Z., Özdemir, S., & Yüce, K. (2016). V and R observations of two carbon stars: UX Dra and RY Dra. Proceedings of the International Astronomical Union, 177, 515–516. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0074180900002795
Izumiura, H. (1999). Extended dust shell around the J-type carbon star RY Draconis. European Space Agency. https://doi.org/10.5270/esa-0vbhrlh
Sketch by Wayne McGraw
The Garden Astronomer 
