Capella (13Alp Aur) — Gaia DR3 HYG-HIP-24608

Capella is a brilliant star located in the Aur constellation within the Milky Way galaxy. It holds significance as one of the brightest stars visible to the naked eye. Standing out at magnitudes of around 0.08, Capella exhibits a relatively stable spectra

Capella's recognition stems primarily from its significance as the brightest star in the Aur constellation. While many stars blaze with intensity, Capella’s radiant glow has long captivated observers. Its prominent position within the constellation allows it to become visible to the casual observer. It’s not simply remarkable for its size; rather, its enduring luminosity makes it a frequent visual indicator.

The star’s historical connection to humanity highlights a compelling choice for symbolic dedication. It has often been identified as a guiding beacon, mirroring the potential for intellectual exploration and the pursuit of knowledge. The star’s history lends a quiet sense of importance and a testament to enduring observation.

How to see it

Capella has a visual magnitude of about 0.08: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.

Sky position

Equatorial coordinates for Capella: right ascension 5h 16m 41s, declination +45° 59′ 53″ (J2000), on the celestial sphere.

Catalog context

Capella. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 13Alp Aur, HIP 24608, HD 34029, Gaia DR3 HYG-HIP-24608.

Catalog identifiers

Gaia: Gaia DR3 HYG-HIP-24608
HIP: 24608
HD: 34029
gaia_dr3: HYG-HIP-24608
Bayer / Flamsteed: 13Alp Aur

Also known as

Observed properties

Visual magnitude: 0.08