Graffias
HIP 78820; Beta1 Sco; 8 Sco
Object Data
- Catalog Designation
- HIP 78820; Beta1 Sco; 8 Sco
- Type
- DoubleStar
- Constellation
- Sco
- Magnitude
- 2.62
- Right Ascension
- 16h 05m 26.2s
- Declination
- -19° 48' 20.0"
- Distance
- 400 light-years
- HR
- 5984
- HIP
- 78820
- Bayer
- Beta1
Survey Image
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About Graffias
Description
Graffias (also called Acrab) is a complex multiple star system at magnitude 2.62 in Scorpius, consisting of at least six stars. The primary is a blue giant of spectral type B1V. Located about 400 light-years from Earth, a small telescope reveals a double star with components separated by about 14 arcseconds.
Observing Tips
Graffias sits at the head of Scorpius, forming a line with Dschubba and Pi Sco. A small telescope splits it into a handsome double — a bright blue-white primary and a fainter companion. Best observed June through August when Scorpius is prominent.
History
The name Graffias comes from Greek/Latin roots meaning 'claws' or 'crab.' The alternate name Acrab comes from the Arabic 'al-'aqrab,' meaning 'the scorpion.' The multiple star nature has been gradually revealed over centuries of observation.
Fun Facts
Graffias is one of the most complex stellar systems visible in a small telescope — what appears as a simple double is actually six stars gravitationally bound together, revealed through spectroscopic and interferometric studies.