Zaurak — Star in Eridanus
HIP 18543; Gamma Eridani; 34 Eridani
About Zaurak
Description
Zaurak is a deep-red giant of spectral type M0.5III at magnitude 2.95, the third brightest star in Eridanus. Located about 221 light-years from Earth, it has a luminosity of roughly 720 times solar. Its deep orange-red color is one of the most vivid among the brighter stars.
Observing Tips
Zaurak lies in the northern part of Eridanus, the long winding river constellation, south and west of Orion. Its deep orange-red color is striking in binoculars. It helps mark the upper bend of the River. Best observed November through February.
History
The name Zaurak comes from the Arabic 'al-zawraq,' meaning 'the boat.' Eridanus is one of the longest constellations, winding from near Rigel all the way south to Achernar at the south celestial pole.
Fun Facts
Zaurak's vivid red color makes it one of the most colorful naked-eye stars in the winter sky. M-type giants like Zaurak have surface temperatures of only about 3,800 K — cool enough that molecules like titanium oxide form in their atmospheres.
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
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Stellar Absorption Spectrum
Simulated absorption spectrum based on spectral type. Hover over lines to identify elements.
14
Stellar Fusion
Discover
15Stellar Notes
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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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