Algieba (γ Leo)

Algieba (γ Leo) is a double star in the constellation Leo, magnitude 2.4.

A bright pair of golden giants in the Sickle of Leo. Its components (magnitudes 2.4 and 3.6; spectral types K1 III (orange) and G7 (yellow)) lie 4.8″ apart at PA 127° (measured 2024).

When and where to see it

It is best placed in the evening sky around March, when it crosses the meridian at about 10 pm local time (around midnight in February). It can be seen from everywhere north of 70°S and never sets north of 70°N.

At its highest it stands 60° up from 50°N, 75° up from 35°N, 70° up from the equator, 35° up from 35°S.

Facts

Type

Double star

Constellation

Leo

Designations

γ Leo, Gamma Leonis, γ¹ Leo, Gamma¹ Leonis, 41 Leo, 41 Leonis, STF 1424, HIP 50583

Magnitude

2.4

Position

RA 10h 20.0m, Dec +19° 51′ (J2000)

Open AstroPilot to see when Algieba (γ Leo) is highest tonight from your location, how easy it is with your telescope or binoculars, and an eyepiece view.