Pherkad - γ Ursae Minoris (gamma Ursae Minoris)
Pherkad, also designated as γ Ursae Minoris (gamma Ursae Minoris), is a variable bright giant star of spectral class A3 in the constellation of Ursa Minor.
Pherkad visual magnitude is 3.05. Because of its moderate brightness, Pherkad is easily visible to the naked eye from locations with dark skies, while it might be barely visible, or not visible at all, from light-polluted skies.
Celestial Coordinates
Apparent
J2000
Galactic Coordinates
Finder Chart
Simplified finder chart for Pherkad - γ Ursae Minoris (gamma Ursae Minoris).
Magnitude, Color, Spectral Class
The red dot in the diagram below shows where Pherkad is situated in the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram.
Distance, Radial Speed, Proper Motion
Pherkad is distant 480.12 light years from the Sun and it is moving towards the Sun at the speed of 4 kilometers per second.
Alternative Designations
Visibility from Your Location
Pherkad - γ Ursae Minoris (gamma Ursae Minoris) is circumpolar and transits at 15:36 UTC (altitude: 69.7°)