Xihe – a noteworthy star residing within the Lyr constellation, designated Lyr-Xihe. This celestial body is approximately 432.8 light years away from Earth and exhibits a magnitude of 5.761. It is located within the constellation Lyr, a small, relatively
Xihe is recognizable within the observable sky through its relationship to Sirius, known as the brightest star in the night sky. While not possessing a unique spectral type, its relatively close proximity and brightness allow for consistent and easily observable positioning. The star's distance is notable considering it’s not significantly further afield from our Sun.
For centuries, the exceptional luminance of Xihe has captivated observers – perhaps as a sign of astronomical significance. The luminosity is relatively low, requiring extensive observation to fully catalogue its position within the heavens. Considering Xihe’s intrinsic properties, it's likely a relatively unremarkable star, existing as one of many similar celestial bodies in the vast expanse of space.
A thoughtful symbolic value could be associated with the selection of Xihe as a celestial point of devotion. It represents a point of brightness and significance, potentially a symbol of unwavering light in darkness – an eternally vibrant point in the heavens, a small beacon for stargazers.
How to see it
Xihe has a visual magnitude of about 5.76: under a reasonably dark sky it is typically reachable with the unaided eye.
Sky position
Equatorial coordinates for Xihe: right ascension 18h 43m 36s, declination +36° 33′ 25″ (J2000), in the region of the Lyra constellation (IAU figure Lyr).
Catalog context
Xihe. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as HIP 91852, HD 173416, Gaia DR3 2096524140211914368. In the SkyKeepsake Lyra (Lyr) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.
Catalog identifiers
- Gaia
- Gaia DR3 2096524140211914368
- HIP
- 91852
- HD
- 173416
- gaia_dr3
- 2096524140211914368
Observed properties
- Visual magnitude
- 5.76