Ascella. A significant celestial object within the constellation Scorpius, Ascella is a triple star system, officially known as Sgr 38Zet. It presents a complex stellar arrangement with a luminosity of approximately 3.25, placing it within the medium stel
The recognizable characteristics of Ascella in the sky stem primarily from its positioning within the Zodiac belt. It functions, for astronomers, as the brightest star within a relatively young and dynamic cluster. Observations suggest a relatively low rotational speed for the star, indicating a stable planetary motion with an average orbit period approaching 7 years. The star presents a notable degree of variation in brightness, fluctuating subtly across a band covering a few stellar cycles.
Given the relatively quiet nature of the Scorpiosus system, observations focusing on the unique characteristics of this star suggest a potential symbolic appeal for celestial devotees. Rather than focusing on the star’s inherent qualities, its luminous presence is intended to evoke the wonder of a timeless astronomical space and signify the passage of celestial time. The star’s role, in this context, is to provide a steady point of focus within the expansive, ever-changing background.
How to see it
Ascella has a visual magnitude of about 3.25: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.
Sky position
Equatorial coordinates for Ascella: right ascension 19h 2m 37s, declination −29° 52′ 49″ (J2000), in the region of the Sagittarius constellation (IAU figure Sgr).
Catalog context
Ascella. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 38Zet Sgr, HIP 93506, HD 176687, Gaia DR3 6760703042771435136. In the SkyKeepsake Sagittarius (Sgr) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.
Catalog identifiers
- Gaia
- Gaia DR3 6760703042771435136
- HIP
- 93506
- HD
- 176687
- gaia_dr3
- 6760703042771435136
- Bayer / Flamsteed
- 38Zet Sgr
Observed properties
- Visual magnitude
- 3.25