Aludra: A captivating, dwarf star residing within the Pup constellation. The star, Aludra, is a faint, elliptical orb, designated with a visual magnitude of 2.45. Its position within the Pup constellation places it within the southeastern sector of the ni
Known for its distinctive, elongated shape and relatively low magnitude, Aludra is easily recognizable among the myriad of faint stars twinkling overhead. It demonstrates an intriguing spectral classification, lacking significant variation in its light output – a simple, unchanging spectral type. In the context of celestial mapping, Aludra's small size and relatively weak light suggests it has been undergoing significant changes in its luminosity throughout its lifespan, perhaps due to recent encounters with other stars.
Perhaps the intriguing aspect of Aludra is the sheer remoteness of its location – relatively far from the more luminous areas of the sky – making it a focal point in a relatively dark region. It's a silent sentinel amidst a galactic panorama, a subtle yet present reminder of the vastness of space and the relative longevity of its form. Its existence does not carry any apparent connection to a cultural narrative.
How to see it
Aludra has a visual magnitude of about 2.45: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.
Sky position
Equatorial coordinates for Aludra: right ascension 7h 24m 6s, declination −29° 18′ 11″ (J2000), in the region of the Puppis constellation (IAU figure Pup).
Catalog context
Aludra. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 31Eta CMa, HIP 35904, HD 58350, Gaia DR3 5605797194566011520. In the SkyKeepsake Puppis (Pup) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.
Catalog identifiers
- Gaia
- Gaia DR3 5605797194566011520
- HIP
- 35904
- HD
- 58350
- gaia_dr3
- 5605797194566011520
- Bayer / Flamsteed
- 31Eta CMa
Observed properties
- Visual magnitude
- 2.45