When is the best time to observe Mirfak?

Mirfak is best observed from October through December, with peak visibility during November when it transits around midnight in the Northern Hemisphere.

Where is Mirfak located in the sky?

Mirfak lies in the constellation Perseus at right ascension 03h 24m and declination +49° 52′.

What telescope do I need to see Mirfak?

At magnitude 1.8, Mirfak is visible to the naked eye under most conditions.

Mirfak — Star in Perseus

Alpha Per

Magnitude 1.8^m Star Perseus (Per) Visible

Star Map + List + Plan

About Mirfak

Description

Mirfak is a yellow-white supergiant of spectral type F5Ib at magnitude 1.79, the brightest star in Perseus. Located about 510 light-years from Earth, it has a luminosity of roughly 5,000 times solar. Mirfak is the brightest member of the Alpha Persei Cluster (Melotte 20), a nearby open cluster visible to the naked eye.

Observing Tips

Mirfak is the bright star at the center of a scattered group of fainter stars — the Alpha Persei Cluster — which is a magnificent sight in binoculars or a wide-field telescope. The cluster spans several degrees. Mirfak lies between Cassiopeia and the Pleiades. It is circumpolar from many northern latitudes. Best observed October through February.

History

The name Mirfak comes from the Arabic 'mirfaq al-thurayya,' meaning 'the elbow.' In Greek mythology, Perseus used Mirfak's position in the constellation to represent the hero's side as he holds the Gorgon's head. The Alpha Persei Cluster surrounding it was first recognized as a physical group in the early 20th century.

Fun Facts

The Alpha Persei Cluster is one of the best examples of an open cluster whose brightest member is a supergiant. The cluster is about 50 million years old and is slowly dispersing. In binoculars, the spray of blue-white stars around golden Mirfak is one of the loveliest sights in the autumn sky.