Alpha Piscium, a 151-light-year binary in Pisces, offers a challenging split for telescopes. Best viewed in late autumn for skilled observers.
Category Archives: Double/Multiple Stars
Iota Orionis: A Runaway Star in Orion’s Sword
This multiple star is not only one of the hottest in the Orion constellation but a “runaway” star. This was my last observation of 2021.
Sigma Orionis: An Attractive Quartet of Stars in Orion
Some consider Sigma Orionis one of the best multiple star systems to view. It makes its home just underneath the belt of Orion near the famous Horsehead Nebula.
Mintaka: A Blazing Hot Star System in Orion’s Belt
Mintaka, a hot bluish-white star in Orion’s Belt, shines 190,000 times brighter than the Sun and is easily seen in the winter sky with the naked eye.
Miram (Eta Persei): A Gold and Sapphire Binary on Winter Nights
Miram is a night sky gem and one of the prettiest binary stars in our galaxy. Make your way to the constellation Perseus on a winter night to enjoy the pair.
8 Lacertae: Crystal Blue Persuasion
This multiple star system contains some pretty pale blue stars floating among the dim constellation of the Lacerta.
Dabih: A Wide Naked-Eye Double Victim of Lunar Occultations
Dabih has several intriguing factors, including that it sails along the ecliptic, so it can be occulted by the Moon.
Algedi Prima: A Creamy Yellow Double Star in Capricornus
Algedi Prima is a nice optical double with a surprising twist: The stars look the same in the telescope but they are hundreds of light years apart!