When is the best time to observe Zuben Elschemali?

Zuben Elschemali is best observed from April through June, with peak visibility during May when it transits around midnight in the Northern Hemisphere.

Where is Zuben Elschemali located in the sky?

Zuben Elschemali lies in the constellation Libra at right ascension 15h 17m and declination -09° 23′.

What telescope do I need to see Zuben Elschemali?

At magnitude 2.6, Zuben Elschemali is visible to the naked eye from dark skies, easy in any binoculars.

Zuben Elschemali — Star in Libra

HIP 74785; Beta Librae; 27 Librae

Magnitude 2.6^m Star Libra (Lib) Visible

Star Map + List + Plan

About Zuben Elschemali

Description

Zuben Elschemali is a blue-white star of spectral type B8V at magnitude 2.61, the brightest star in Libra. Located about 185 light-years from Earth, it has a luminosity of roughly 130 times solar. Some observers claim to see a greenish tint, making it one of the few bright stars for which a green color has been reported.

Observing Tips

Zuben Elschemali is the more northerly of the two main stars of Libra (the Scales), forming the northern pan of the balance with Zuben Elgenubi (Alpha Lib) to the south. The constellation lies between Virgo and Scorpius. Best observed May through July.

History

The name Zuben Elschemali comes from the Arabic 'al-zuban al-shamali,' meaning 'the northern claw,' from when these stars were considered part of Scorpius. The Romans separated them into the constellation Libra. It is the only first-magnitude zodiacal star that is not an obvious red, orange, or white.

Fun Facts

Zuben Elschemali is often cited as the only bright star that appears genuinely green to some observers. While most astronomers attribute this to a contrast effect or atmospheric conditions, the reports are persistent enough to make it a curiosity.