Gamma Hydri — Star in Hydrus

Gamma Hydri is a red giant of spectral type M2III at magnitude 3.24 in the southern constellation Hydrus. Located about 214 light-years from Earth, it is a cool star with a surface temperature of only about 3,600 K and a strong reddish color. It is the third brightest star in this small, faint constellation.

Gamma Hyi lies in the far southern sky within the small constellation Hydrus, between the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds. Its red color is noticeable to the naked eye and quite striking in binoculars. Only visible from the southern hemisphere. Best observed from October through December when the south polar region is well-placed.

Gamma Hydri has no traditional proper name. Hydrus was introduced as a constellation by Dutch navigators in the late 16th century. It represents a small water snake, distinct from the much larger and more ancient Hydra. The constellation's proximity to the south celestial pole made it useful for navigation in the southern seas.