When is the best time to observe Gienah Cygni?

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

Where is Gienah Cygni located in the sky?

Gienah Cygni lies in the constellation Cygnus at right ascension 20h 46m and declination +33° 58′.

What telescope do I need to see Gienah Cygni?

At magnitude 2.5, Gienah Cygni is visible to the naked eye under most conditions.

Gienah Cygni — Star in Cygnus

HIP 102488; Epsilon Cygni; 53 Cygni

Magnitude 2.5^m Star Cygnus (Cyg) Visible

Star Map + List + Plan

About Gienah Cygni

Description

Gienah (Epsilon Cygni) is an orange giant of spectral type K0III at magnitude 2.46 in Cygnus. Located about 72 light-years from Earth, it has a luminosity of roughly 62 times solar. The name Gienah is confusingly shared with Gamma Corvi in the constellation Corvus.

Observing Tips

Gienah marks the eastern wing of Cygnus (the Swan), forming part of the Northern Cross. It is a warm-orange star easy to find in the context of the Cross asterism. Its color contrasts with the blue-white Deneb and Sadr nearby. Best observed June through November when Cygnus flies high overhead.

History

The name Gienah comes from the Arabic 'janah,' meaning 'the wing.' The same name is used for Gamma Corvi, causing confusion. To distinguish them, this star is sometimes called 'Gienah Cygni.' Cygnus the Swan has been recognized since at least Greek times and is one of the most prominent constellations of the summer sky.

Fun Facts

Epsilon Cygni shares its name Gienah with Gamma Corvi — both derive from the Arabic word for 'wing,' but they refer to completely different constellations. This is one of the few cases where two unrelated bright stars share the same proper name.