Illyrian: A visually striking, late-type variable star within the LMi constellation, positioned approximately 413 light years away. Known for its exceptionally prolonged, relatively slow movement across the sky, this star demonstrates a pronounced radial
The unique characteristics of Illyrian are intrinsically linked to its long-term trajectory and stellar evolution. The star’s prominent elliptical shape, combined with its low luminosity, has been frequently observed as an example of a Cepheus variable star. Though lacking any specific spectral characteristics beyond its general colour, Illyrian emits light primarily in the yellowish-white range, similar to our sun. It is a valuable target for understanding stellar evolution and, in particular, the impact of long-term orbital dynamics, presenting a captivating example of a visually timeless world in the night sky.
This star is a classic example of a variable star – one that slowly undergoes shifts in its position across the sky's temporal plane, a defining trait visible to the naked eye over immense distances and periods of time. While not a dramatic or exotic star, its existence highlights a measurable feature of stellar behaviour throughout its lifespan – that its light source is slowly changing. Observations of Illyrian confirm that, with a duration of over 300 years in the observation timeframe of its light, it presents a remarkable demonstration of the longevity of stellar cycles and the ever-changing nature of celestial bodies.
How to see it
Illyrian has a visual magnitude of about 7.39: it usually needs binoculars or a small telescope, especially from light-polluted sites.
Sky position
Equatorial coordinates for Illyrian: right ascension 9h 35m 45s, declination +34° 46′ 50″ (J2000), in the region of the Leo Minor constellation (IAU figure LMi).
Catalog context
Illyrian. It appears in classical and modern catalogs as HIP 47087, HD 82886, Gaia DR3 797597524475897600. In the SkyKeepsake Leo Minor (LMi) browse hub it sits with other stars of the same IAU figure.
Catalog identifiers
- Gaia
- Gaia DR3 797597524475897600
- HIP
- 47087
- HD
- 82886
- gaia_dr3
- 797597524475897600
Also known as
- Gaia DR3 TOP 5M 797597524475897600
- HD 82886
- HIP 47087
Observed properties
- Visual magnitude
- 7.39