SkyKeptsake page about the star Alterf.

Alterf is a distinct constellation within the Centaurus, formally classified as Cnc. It manifests as a faint, steadily increasing point of light in the southern celestial skies. The star’s magnitude is 3.671, representing it as a medium-sized star within its constellation. While visually unremarkable for the majority of observers, Alterf’s unique path of apparent position within the Centaurus constellation distinguishes it. It exhibits consistent, observable movement relative to other stars of similar magnitude.

Alterf is recognizable as a key point of reference due to its distinctive alignment relative to a larger system of stellar bodies. The observed movement of Alterf—consistent but subtle— aligns with a particular pattern within the system. This pattern provides a consistent framework for tracking the star’s evolution over time, highlighting its stable positioning in the vast expanse of the heavens and its enduring presence in the sky.

Alterf may be chosen as a symbolic devotion, perhaps representing a steadfast longing or contemplation tied to a sense of timelessness. There's no data available as to the precise context of this selection or its significance.

How to see it

Alterf has a visual magnitude of about 3.67: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.

Sky position

Equatorial coordinates for Alterf: right ascension 9h 31m 43s, declination +22° 58′ 4″ (J2000), in the region of the Cancer constellation (IAU figure Cnc).

Cancer — Explore by constellation

Catalog context

Alterf. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 4Lam Leo, HIP 46750, HD 82308, Gaia DR3 644306911864817152. In the SkyKeepsake Cancer (Cnc) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.

Catalog identifiers

Gaia

Gaia DR3 644306911864817152

HIP

46750

HD

82308

gaia_dr3

644306911864817152

Bayer / Flamsteed

4Lam Leo

Also known as

• 4Lam Leo
• Gaia DR3 TOP 5M 644306911864817152
• HD 82308
• HIP 46750

Observed properties

Visual magnitude

3.67