3
Apparent Mag480
Distance (ly)A3Iab
Spectral Type8,280
Temperature (K)Pherkad is a white supergiant in Ursa Minor. Along with Kochab, it formed the ancient pair of Guardians of the Pole.
Stellar Data
Apparent Magnitude3
Absolute Magnitude-2.84
Distance480 light-years
Spectral TypeA3Iab
Temperature8,280 K
Luminosity1,100 L☉
Radius15 R☉
Mass4.8 M☉
Right Ascension15h 20m 43.7s
Declination+71° 50′ 02.5″
ConstellationUrsa Minor
Notable Facts
- Pherkad and Kochab were the Guardians of the Pole in antiquity
- It is a Delta Scuti variable
- The name means the two calves in Arabic