Alnilam
Product information
Description
Alnilam radiates a bright, icy blue-white light and dominates the center of Orion’s Belt. Its brilliance and location make it one of the most captivating stars in the winter sky.
Additional Information
- Constellation
- Orion
- Spectral Type
- B0Ia
- Apparent Magnitude
- 1.69
- Distance (Light Years)
- 2000
- Right Ascension
- 05h 36m 12.8s
- Declination
- −01° 12′ 07″
- Solar Masses
- 40
- Radius (Solar)
- 32
- Temperature (Kelvin)
- 27000
- Age (Million Years)
- 4
Discovery
- Ancient Civilizations
- Babylonians, Greeks, Arabs
- Historical Significance
- Alnilam has been observed since antiquity and forms the central star of Orion’s Belt, one of the most recognizable patterns in the night sky. Its alignment with neighboring stars made it important in early astronomy and mythology.
Cultural Significance
- Mythology
- In Greek mythology, Alnilam is part of Orion’s Belt — the hunter’s emblematic belt or sword. The name 'Alnilam' originates from Arabic, meaning 'string of pearls,' perfectly reflecting its central position in the belt trio.
- Navigation
- Alnilam has long been a key navigational star due to its brightness and near-equatorial position, allowing it to be seen from both hemispheres.
- Modern Reference
- Alnilam is commonly referenced in stargazing guides, astrophotography tutorials, and planetarium shows as part of the iconic Orion constellation.
Notable Features
- Stellar Motion
- Alnilam exhibits typical proper motion for a distant supergiant. Its brightness makes it one of the most luminous stars visible to the naked eye.
- Additional Fact
- Alnilam is a massive blue supergiant nearing the end of its life. It will eventually explode as a supernova and significantly enrich the interstellar medium.
User Dedications
- Dedications
- This star has not been claimed yet. Be the first to dedicate it to someone special!