When is the best time to observe Alpha Lyncis?

Alpha Lyncis is best observed from January through March, with peak visibility during February when it transits around midnight in the Northern Hemisphere.

Where is Alpha Lyncis located in the sky?

Alpha Lyncis lies in the constellation Lynx at right ascension 09h 21m and declination +34° 24′.

What telescope do I need to see Alpha Lyncis?

At magnitude 3.1, Alpha Lyncis is visible to the naked eye from dark skies, easy in any binoculars.

Alpha Lyncis — Star in Lynx

Magnitude 3.1^m Star Lynx (Lyn) Visible

Star Map + List + Plan

About Alpha Lyn

Description

Alpha Lyncis is a deep-red giant of spectral type K7IIIab at magnitude 3.13, the brightest star in Lynx. Located about 203 light-years from Earth, it has a luminosity of roughly 673 times solar. It is one of the coolest and reddest bright stars in the northern sky.

Observing Tips

Alpha Lyn lies in the sparse constellation Lynx between Ursa Major and Gemini. Its deep orange-red color is striking in binoculars. Lynx is a faint constellation — Johannes Hevelius said you needed the eyes of a lynx to see it. Best observed January through May.

History

Lynx was created by Johannes Hevelius in 1687 to fill a gap between Ursa Major and Auriga. Alpha Lyncis has no traditional proper name. Hevelius reportedly chose the name Lynx because you need the keen eyesight of a lynx to make out the constellation's faint stars.

Fun Facts

Lynx is one of the few constellations deliberately named to highlight how faint it is. Alpha Lyn's deep red color makes it the most notable member of this otherwise forgettable constellation.