BBC Sky at Night Magazine

5 Zubenescha­mali (Beta (`) Librae)

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This is the only singleton star in our list. Our other candidates are components in a binary or multiple star system, and it is the juxtaposit­ion of colours that leads to a suggestion of a green tint. But Zubenescha­mali manages to take on a green hue all on its own.

Libra is not the easiest constellat­ion to spot in skies that suffer any light pollution. Perhaps the easiest place to start is bright Spica (Alpha (_) Virginis). From Spica, move 27.5° east and north by 1.5°. Zubenescha­mali is the second brightest star in Libra, so it should be evident even at a low power.

Beta (`) Librae is a spectral class B8 star that appears pale blue or blue-green at 62x magnificat­ion. At 110x it may appear pale green. Step away from the eyepiece for a moment then return, and note your initial impression of the star’s colour. It is this technique that may produce the most convincing impression of green.

 ??  ?? The summer months are the best time to try to spot the green stars Zubenescha­mali, Antares, Acrab and Raslagethi, with Cor Caroli best in spring
The summer months are the best time to try to spot the green stars Zubenescha­mali, Antares, Acrab and Raslagethi, with Cor Caroli best in spring
 ??  ?? Zubenescha­mali (Beta (`) Librae) Magnitude +2.6
Zubenescha­mali (Beta (`) Librae) Magnitude +2.6

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