The region of sky near the star Mu Cephei, with a nebula known as IC 1396.
Click on image for star map
© Matt BenDaniel
Mu Cephei Deep Red Giant
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What's in a Name: |
Known as the "Garnet Star" because of its deep red color - one of the most intensely colored stars ever recorded when viewed through a telescope.
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Claim to Fame: |
Famous variable star. Its brightness is 4 times greater at its maximum than at its minimum.
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Type of Star: |
Red Giant (M2 Ia Spectral Class)
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How Far Away: |
1,550 light years away
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How Big: |
2536 times the solar radius. Would fill the orbit of Saturn. Could pack more than 1 billion suns into the same volume.
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How Bright: |
38,000 times brighter than the sun. Absolute visual magnitude, Mv =-6.7
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Where to View: |
Located in the constellation of Cepheus (Star Map)
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When to View: |
Best viewed from the Northern hemisphere during August through January
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