Polaris

1Alp UMi

Polaris is a F-type (Yellow-White) star. It carries the designation 1Alp UMi.

Located approximately 432.6 light-years from Earth, Polaris resides within the broader disk of our Milky Way galaxy.

Polaris is classified as a spectral class F star (F-type (Yellow-White)) on the Harvard spectral classification system.

Polaris has an apparent magnitude of +1.97, making it a bright and prominent star that is readily visible to the naked eye. It is one of the more conspicuous stars in its region of the sky. Observers will note its yellow-white hue, which corresponds to a B-V color index of +0.636.

Physical Properties

Spectral Class Class F — F-type (Yellow-White)
Color Index (B−V) 0.636

Observation

Apparent Magnitude +1.97
Absolute Magnitude -3.64
Distance 433 ly

Position

Right Ascension 2h 31.79m
Declination 89° 15.85′

Related Chemistry

Explore the chemical elements connected to Polaris on our sister site ChemFYI.

Part of the Science FYI Family

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of star is Polaris?
Polaris is a Class F — F-type (Yellow-White) star.
How far is Polaris from Earth?
Polaris is approximately 432.6 light-years from Earth.
Can you see Polaris with the naked eye?
With an apparent magnitude of 1.97, Polaris is visible to the naked eye.