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Alkaid

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description Alkaid Overview

Alkaid, designated Eta Ursae Majoris, is a blue-white main-sequence star located at the tip of the handle of the Big Dipper in Ursa Major. It is approximately 104 light-years from Earth and has an apparent magnitude of around 1.86, making it one of the brightest stars in the asterism. Unlike the other six Dipper stars, Alkaid is not a member of the Ursa Major Moving Group. With a surface temperature of roughly 15,500 kelvin, it is the hottest of the Big Dipper's visible components.

help Alkaid FAQ

Where is Alkaid in the Big Dipper?

Alkaid is the star at the free end of the Big Dipper's curved handle, farthest from the bowl. Its astronomical designation is Eta Ursae Majoris.

Is Alkaid part of the Ursa Major Moving Group?

Unlike five central Big Dipper stars, Alkaid is not a member of the Ursa Major Moving Group. Alkaid and Dubhe have different motions through space, so the familiar asterism will gradually change shape.

Why does Alkaid look blue-white?

Alkaid is a hot B-type main-sequence star with a surface temperature far above that of the Sun. It is the hottest Big Dipper star and appears blue-white because much of its radiation is produced at shorter wavelengths.

Can Alkaid be used to find another constellation?

Following the Big Dipper handle's curve from the bowl leads through Alkaid toward the bright star Arcturus in Boötes. The traditional observing phrase is to arc to Arcturus, then continue onward to Spica.

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