SkyKeepsake page about the star Azha
Azha – A Constellation Gem
Azha is a relatively young, orange-hued star within the Cetus constellation. Designated by catalog code 3Eta Eri, it's situated at a mere 134.7 light-years away and exhibits a visible magnitude of 3.583. It is considered a variable star, fluctuating slightly in brightness across its entire lifespan but currently at a steady rate – it orbits the galactic plane at a speed of approximately 24.22 mas per year. Its precise orbital period is not fully determined through observation.
An Irradiance Beacon
The distinguishing characteristic of Azha – and indeed, a star of this age and position – is its exceptionally high luminosity, relative to its apparent size. It represents a pivotal point in the star's lifecycle, placing it squarely within the region where significant stellar evolution is actively occurring. Stars like our Sun are relatively dim compared to Azha's intensity and are thought to be significantly older, having long ago completed their main sequence and entered the red giant stage. Their radiation output has resulted in considerable warmth around it.
Symbolic Significance, Perhaps
Given its positioning and apparent brightness – roughly 30% of the star’s apparent brightness – the choice of Azha, as a constellation, may signify a dedication or intention. This isn’t inherently associated with any particular meaning – rather it stands out as a visual reference for that. One might perceive it as a marker or symbol in the night sky, offering a steady point of reference for viewing and contemplation. It's a constant, unchanging light source, a small but enduring presence amidst the broader tapestry of stars.
How to see it
Azha has a visual magnitude of about 3.58: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.
Sky position
Equatorial coordinates for Azha: right ascension 2h 56m 26s, declination −8° 53′ 57″ (J2000), in the region of the Cetus constellation (IAU figure Cet).
Catalog context
Azha. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 3Eta Eri, HIP 13701, HD 18322, Gaia DR3 5173421634271199104. In the SkyKeepsake Cetus (Cet) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.
Catalog identifiers
- Gaia
- Gaia DR3 5173421634271199104
- HIP
- 13701
- HD
- 18322
- gaia_dr3
- 5173421634271199104
- Bayer / Flamsteed
- 3Eta Eri
Observed properties
- Visual magnitude
- 3.58