Where to find gamma-Cas in the night sky (IMAGE)

University of Liège

Where to find gamma-Cas in the night sky

Caption

The star gamma-Cas (γ-Cas) makes up the central ‘point’ of the distinctive ‘W’-shaped constellation Cassiopeia. Close to the ‘pole star’ Polaris, it is visible to northern hemisphere observers every night. 

The fast-spinning star is ejecting a rotating disc of matter, resulting in variations in its brightness. Small telescopes reveal this flickering brightness, making it a popular target for amateur astronomers.

Credit

Astronomy Now/Greg Smye-Rumsby

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