Thuban

Thuban (α Draconis) is a white giant star in the constellation Draco. With an apparent magnitude of 3.65 it is the 344th-brightest star in the night sky, and it is about 268 light-years from Earth.

Finder chart showing where Thuban is in the constellation Draco
Thuban (circled) in Draco, with the surrounding constellations and bright stars.
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Facts

ConstellationDraco
Designationα Draconis (Alpha Draconis), HR 5291
Apparent magnitude3.65 (344th brightest)
Spectral typeA0III
Colorwhite (B−V -0.05)
Distanceabout 268 light-years
Right ascension14 h 4.4 min
Declination+64.38°
Best monthJune (at about 9 pm)

Sources: star positions, magnitudes and colors from the Yale Bright Star Catalogue; constellation boundaries and star names from the IAU; areas and distances from Wikidata; stick figures by M. van der Sluys. How the maps are made.

How to find Thuban

Thuban is in Draco. From 40° N it never sets; it is highest in the north, about 66° up. From 35° S it stays below the horizon. Nearby bright stars: Kochab (11° away), Mizar (11° away) and Alioth (12° away).

Draco constellation →

Other named stars in Draco

EltaninAthebyneRastabanAltaisAldhibahEdasichGrumiumGiausarDzibanAlsafiFafnir

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