When is the best time to observe Fuyue?

Fuyue is best observed from May through July, with peak visibility during June when it transits around midnight in the Northern Hemisphere.

Where is Fuyue located in the sky?

Fuyue lies in the constellation Scorpius at right ascension 17h 50m and declination -37° 03′.

What telescope do I need to see Fuyue?

At magnitude 3.2, Fuyue is visible to the naked eye from dark skies, easy in any binoculars.

Fuyue — Star in Scorpius

HIP 87261

Magnitude 3.2^m Star Scorpius (Sco) Visible

Star Map + List + Plan

About Fuyue

Description

Fuyue is a K-type giant of spectral class K2 III about 126 light-years away, located in the central part of Scorpius near the heart of the constellation. It shines at magnitude 3.21 with a warm orange hue. Fuyue has no resolved companions and is a red-clump giant actively fusing helium in its core.

Observing Tips

Fuyue lies in the central body of Scorpius, near Antares. In binoculars it appears as a clean warm-yellow point. Best observed May through September.

History

The IAU adopted the name Fuyue in 2017 — a Chinese name referring to a legendary figure (Fu Yue) who, according to traditional Chinese mythology, was transferred to the sky as a celestial minister after his death. The pairing of Chinese and Arabic star names in this region reflects Scorpius's rich multi-cultural history.

Fun Facts

The Chinese-origin name Fuyue is one of a small number of non-Western names in the official IAU catalog, alongside Xamidimura, Pipirima, Chamukuy, Ginan, Taiyangshou, and a handful of others. This naming effort aims to broaden the cultural base of recognized stellar nomenclature.