Hassaleh is a captivating variable star, classified as a Cepheid variable – a type of star whose dimness enables astronomers to estimate its luminosity – within the Aur constellation. Its primary designation is CMa 3137, and its recognized magnitude is 2.
Hassaleh’s prominence stems from its unique properties – it exhibits a measurable rate of dimming, a phenomenon frequently linked to its pulsating nature. This allows astronomers to estimate its intrinsic brightness, a key element for determining its location in the sky and its position within astronomical catalogs. The star’s movement through the night sky, though subtle, is consistently observable through the use of a telescope. It exists in a stable state for an extended duration.
The choice of Hassaleh to serve as a dedication, quite literally, represents something bright and steady. It's a testament to enduring illumination – a beacon of possibility within the vast darkness. It invites a contemplation of a quiet, persistent presence – a softly glowing presence reflecting a vast history of cosmos.
How to see it
Hassaleh has a visual magnitude of about 2.20: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.
Sky position
Equatorial coordinates for Hassaleh: right ascension 4h 56m 60s, declination +33° 9′ 58″ (J2000), in the region of the Auriga constellation (IAU figure Aur).
Catalog context
Hassaleh. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 3Iot Aur, HIP 23015, HD 31398, Gaia DR3 160886283751041408. In the SkyKeepsake Auriga (Aur) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.
Catalog identifiers
- Gaia
- Gaia DR3 160886283751041408
- HIP
- 23015
- HD
- 31398
- gaia_dr3
- 160886283751041408
- Bayer / Flamsteed
- 3Iot Aur
Also known as
- 3Iot Aur
- Gaia DR3 TOP 5M 160886283751041408
- HD 31398
- HIP 23015
Observed properties
- Visual magnitude
- 2.20