Algol vs Mira

Property Algol Mira
Designation 26Bet Per 68Omi Cet
Constellation Perseus N/A
Spectral Class Class B — B-type (Blue-White) Class M — M-type (Red)
Apparent Magnitude +2.09 +6.47
Absolute Magnitude -0.11 1.66
Distance 89.9 ly 299 ly
Mass N/A N/A
Radius N/A N/A
Temperature N/A N/A
Luminosity N/A N/A

Key Differences

  • Both are famous variable stars but of completely different types.
  • Algol is an eclipsing binary — it dims when its fainter companion passes in front; Mira is a pulsating long-period variable.
  • Algol varies every 2.87 days; Mira has a pulsation period of ~332 days.
  • Mira is a red giant that sheds material, leaving a 13-light-year tail; Algol is a B-type star system.
  • Algol was probably the first eclipsing variable to be recognized by ancient observers.

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