Nodus Secundus — Star in Draco
HIP 94376; Delta Draconis; 57 Draconis
About Nodus Secundus
Description
Nodus Secundus (also called Altais) is a yellow giant of spectral type G9III at magnitude 3.07 in Draco. Located about 97 light-years from Earth, it has a luminosity of roughly 59 times solar. It marks one of the 'knots' or coils in the winding body of the Dragon.
Observing Tips
Delta Dra lies in the central body of Draco, one of the many stars tracing the serpentine form between the Big and Little Dippers. It is circumpolar from mid-northern latitudes. Best placed high overhead in summer evenings.
History
The name Nodus Secundus is Latin for 'the second knot,' referring to a coil in the Dragon's body. The alternate name Altais comes from Arabic. Draco is one of the oldest recognized constellations and features in many cultural mythologies.
Fun Facts
Draco's winding body contains numerous stars named after 'knots' and 'coils' in various languages — the constellation literally slithers between the two celestial Bears in a series of curves.
Observe
1Physical Properties
2Position & Identifiers
3How easy to spot?
| Equipment | Bortle 3 | Bortle 4 | Bortle 5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naked eye Naked eye | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| 50 mm finder 50mm finder | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| 150 mm telescope 150mm scope | Easy | Easy | Easy |
Bortle 3 = rural · 4 = outer suburbs · 5 = suburbs
4Visibility
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5Survey Image
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Explore
7
Size Comparison
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Compare Stars
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Spectral Classification
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Hertzsprung-Russell Diagram
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Stellar Lifecycle
12
Blackbody Spectrum
13
Stellar Absorption Spectrum
Simulated absorption spectrum based on spectral type. Hover over lines to identify elements.
14
Stellar Fusion
Discover
15Stellar Notes
16
Light Travel Time Machine
17
Relativistic Travel
Nearby in the Sky
Other targets within a few degrees — pan your scope a little and keep exploring.
Visibility scores assume a 150 mm Newton at Bortle 4.
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