The star Grumium, formally designated as 32Xi Dra, is a relatively small, magnitude 3.384, subgiant star nestled within the Dra constellation. It is located 112.2 light-years from Earth in the direction of the constellation Draco. Grumium boasts a visuall
Grumium has a remarkably unique position within the night sky for a star of its type. It isn’t typically associated with any significant luminosity or significant planetary activity, despite its relatively stable motion. Its spectral type is consistently red, reflecting the intense light it has retained over billions of years. Notably, Grumium does not seem to exhibit significant emission lines, which reduces the chances that it is emitting stellar spectral types or that it is a planetary nebula at all. The star exhibits a notable parallax of 29.06 mas, a constant value that has been recorded over the last 300 years, allowing for precise measurements. It is likely a relatively cold giant, exhibiting low surface temperatures and significant internal activity, potentially forming an accretion disk around the core.
It is possible that a researcher might seek out Grumium as a deliberate, somewhat contemplative design element in their work, perhaps suggesting a quiet observation or a yearning for profound understanding. Its enduring presence evokes a poignant sense of historical time, a reminder of the constant evolution of the cosmos and its silent beauty. The choice of Grumium offers a serene contrast to many bright, expansive stars.
How to see it
Grumium has a visual magnitude of about 3.38: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.
Sky position
Equatorial coordinates for Grumium: right ascension 17h 53m 32s, declination +56° 52′ 23″ (J2000), in the region of the Draco constellation (IAU figure Dra).
Catalog context
Grumium. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 32Xi Dra, HIP 87585, HD 163588, Gaia DR3 1421593566062037120. In the SkyKeepsake Draco (Dra) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.
Catalog identifiers
- Gaia
- Gaia DR3 1421593566062037120
- HIP
- 87585
- HD
- 163588
- gaia_dr3
- 1421593566062037120
- Bayer / Flamsteed
- 32Xi Dra
Observed properties
- Visual magnitude
- 3.38