Catalog/Cancer/Asellus Borealis

Asellus Borealis

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43Gam Cnc · Cancer

Its story

The star’s visibility is significantly enhanced because it is situated within the "Northern Trading Zone" of the night sky, a region remarkably free of light pollution. The object's magnitude, measured relative to stars of similar luminosity, is 4.634, indicating a low luminosity in our light envelope. Unlike some smaller bright stars, Asellus Borealis avoids the intense tidal locking often seen with stars near the galactic center, allowing for relatively unobstructed observation. It is placed within an average distance of 174.9 light-years, significantly within the observable distance of the Milky Way, which we can readily study within the present context.

Its unique position in the constellation, combined with the specific spectral characteristics evident through observation, likely lends it special status within the cosmos. Astronautical surveys have highlighted an anomalous radial velocity of 36.17 km/s—a very slow rate—which suggests a protracted orbital period relative to our vantage point. Furthermore, its apparent movement across the celestial sphere, recorded by modern photometric techniques, appears to trend—at 105.8 mas/yr—primarily towards the East.

Ultimately, Asellus Borealis represents a compelling example of the subtle and consistent details that contribute to a captivating celestial panorama. Its existence, a seemingly unremarkable point of light in the southern hemisphere, invites continued observation and reinforces the wonder inherent in the vastness of space.

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Compose this star
FactsHIP 42806
Right ascension
8h 43m 17s
Declination
+21° 28′ 06″
Magnitude
4.63
Distance
≈ 175 ly
Data: gaia-dr3