Per | 46Xi Per

Menkib is a fascinating star, identified within the Per constellation. It possesses a remarkable magnitude of 3.975, placing it amongst the brightest stars within its immediate group. This star is easily discernible through standard astronomical observation, boasting a relatively direct path through space. It appears to move in a slow, gradual pace, changing its position relative to the horizon over a period of almost a year, approximately 2.446 mas per year. Despite being quite distant – around 1334 light years from Earth – Menkib does not appear to be emitting significant variations in its spectrum. This makes it a somewhat stable and consistent source of light. Its position in the Sky is remarkably well defined; it’s situated near the center of the star chart. The precise arrangement of its coordinates – RA 59.7413° and Dec 35.7910° – points to a specific location in the cosmos.

Perhaps it's the significance of Menkib within its constellation that has fostered a feeling of profound connection. Humans have often associated this star with the overarching narrative of the Per constellation, where some stories tell of Menkib guiding travelers across the vastness of the darkness. For those with an ardent dedication, its simple placement might represent a beacon of understanding against an immense, seemingly endless canvas of space. Its steadfastly steady course could be interpreted as representing hope, longevity, or the unwavering rhythm of the cosmos, suggesting a subtle, undeniable connection to something larger.

How to see it

Menkib has a visual magnitude of about 3.97: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.

Sky position

Equatorial coordinates for Menkib: right ascension 3h 58m 58s, declination +35° 47′ 28″ (J2000), in the region of the Perseus constellation (IAU figure Per).

Perseus — Explore by constellation

Catalog context

Menkib. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as Bayer/Flamsteed designation 46Xi Per, HIP 18614, HD 24912, Gaia DR3 219375904303684224. In the SkyKeepsake Perseus (Per) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.

Catalog identifiers

Gaia

Gaia DR3 219375904303684224

HIP

18614

HD

24912

gaia_dr3

219375904303684224

Bayer / Flamsteed

46Xi Per

Also known as

• 46Xi Per
• Gaia DR3 TOP 5M 219375904303684224
• HD 24912
• HIP 18614

Observed properties

Visual magnitude

3.97