When is the best time to observe Denebola?

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

Where is Denebola located in the sky?

Denebola lies in the constellation Leo at right ascension 11h 49m and declination +14° 34′.

What telescope do I need to see Denebola?

At magnitude 2.1, Denebola is visible to the naked eye under most conditions.

Denebola — Star in Leo

HIP 57632; Beta Leonis; 94 Leonis

Magnitude 2.1^m Star Leo Visible

Star Map + List + Plan

About Denebola

Description

Denebola is a white main-sequence star of spectral type A3V at magnitude 2.14, the second brightest star in Leo. Located about 36 light-years from Earth, it has a luminosity of roughly 15 times solar. Denebola marks the tail of the Lion and is one of the nearest A-type stars to the Sun. It has an infrared excess suggesting a debris disk.

Observing Tips

Denebola marks the eastern end (tail) of Leo, forming the apex of the triangle of stars (with Zosma and Chertan) that makes up the Lion's hindquarter. It is easy to find as the bright star east of Regulus and the Sickle. Denebola is also part of the Spring Triangle with Arcturus and Spica. Best observed March through June.

History

The name Denebola comes from the Arabic 'dhanab al-asad,' meaning 'the tail of the lion.' Like Vega and Fomalhaut, Denebola has a debris disk detected in infrared, making it a candidate for harboring a planetary system. It is a member of the IC 2391 supercluster, a group of young stars with similar ages.

Fun Facts

Denebola is the 'tail tip' of the Spring Triangle asterism, a large triangle also including Arcturus and Spica visible on spring evenings. Its debris disk suggests planets may orbit it, but none have been confirmed. At only 36 light-years, it is one of the nearest A-type stars to the Sun.