Canopus

About

Canopus, also known as Alpha Carinae, is the second brightest star in the night sky, surpassed only by Sirius. It is located in the constellation Carina, which was once part of the larger constellation Argo Navis. Canopus is a bright giant star with a spectral type often classified as A9 II or F0 Ib, appearing white or yellow-white due to atmospheric effects. It has a surface temperature of about 7,400 K and is significantly larger than the Sun, with a radius of approximately 71 solar radii. Canopus holds cultural significance in ancient tales, such as the Greek legend where it was named after the pilot of Menelaus' fleet. It was also revered by the Persians as a symbol of wisdom. The star is about 310 light-years away and is not visible north of 37°18’N latitude. Canopus is used in space navigation and is a member of the Scorpius-Centaurus Association. Its luminosity is about 10,700 times that of the Sun, making it a prominent celestial object in the southern hemisphere.