Pollux (star)
Pollux is a red giant star. It is the brightest star in the Gemini constellation. It's diameter is 12,255,584 kilometres (7,615,267 miles).[1] Once a type A star, Pollux has used all the hydrogen in its core and expanded to become a K-type giant star.[2]
It is located at a distance of 34 light years, which makes it the closest giant star to the Sun. In 2006, an extrasolar planet (designated Pollux b, formally named Thestias) was confirmed to be orbiting the star at a distance of 1.64 AU in nearly a circular orbit.[3]
Pollux (star) Media
Pollux is one of the two brightest stars in the constellation of Gemini (lower left).
The Sun viewed from Pollux (in red circle) in the constellation Sagittarius. Made with Celestia
Size comparison of Pollux (left) and the Sun (right)
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References
- ↑ Döllinger, M. P.. Confirmation of the planet hypothesis for the long-period radial velocity variations of β Geminorum. Astronomy & Astrophysics 457 (1) (1 October 2006). p. 335–341. doi:10.1051/0004-6361:20065445.
- ↑ Power, J.. Discovery of a weak magnetic field in the photosphere of the single giant Pollux. Astronomy & Astrophysics 504 (1) (1 September 2009). p. 231–237. doi:10.1051/0004-6361/200912050.
- ↑ Hatzes, A. P.. Confirmation of the Planet Hypothesis for the Long-period Radial Velocity Variations of Beta Geminorum. Astronomy & Astrophysics 457 (1) (2006). p. 335–341. doi:10.1051/0004-6361:20065445.