Fang—a rapidly pulsating red dwarf star within the Large Identifier constellation—located at approximately 337.2 light years from Earth. Its classification as a red dwarf—defined by its low luminosity—results in an intrinsic period of about 75 days, makin

Fang is famed for its unique pattern of pulsations—a remarkably prolonged and regular cycle—that are largely undocumented by traditional stellar phenomena. This rhythmic behavior is hypothesized to be influenced by interactions with the surrounding interstellar space, potentially modulating a complex mix of plasma and magnetic fields. The sheer longevity of this process, combined with its light level, implies a potentially surprisingly high rate of energy production that is difficult to observe on a comparatively small scale.

Given its position within the catalog, Fang serves as a significant case study in the effects of prolonged stellar magnetism. While many stars exhibit signs of flares or chaotic behavior during their long lifespans, the exceptionally predictable nature of Fang’s pulsations indicates a robust and delicately balanced system potentially shielded from external disturbances by its strong magnetic field. Its long duration and relatively isolated location—primarily in the Galactic Habitable Zone—further emphasizes this unique evolutionary path.

How to see it

Fang has a visual magnitude of about 2.87: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.

Sky position

Equatorial coordinates for Fang: right ascension 15h 58m 51s, declination −26° 6′ 51″ (J2000), in the region of the Libra constellation (IAU figure Lib).

Libra — Explore by constellation

Catalog context

Fang. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 6Pi Sco, HIP 78265, HD 143018, Gaia DR3 6235406071207202688. In the SkyKeepsake Libra (Lib) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.

Catalog identifiers

Gaia

Gaia DR3 6235406071207202688

HIP

78265

HD

143018

gaia_dr3

6235406071207202688

Bayer / Flamsteed

6Pi Sco

Observed properties

Visual magnitude

2.87