description Miaplacidus Overview
Miaplacidus, designated Beta Carinae, is an A-type subgiant or giant star located approximately 113 light-years away in the southern constellation of Carina. It ranks as the second-brightest star in the constellation and is one of the 57 fundamental stars used for celestial navigation. The star's unusual name is an artificial creation combining a Latin root for placid with an Arabic root often interpreted as waters. Historically part of the massive Argo Navis constellation before its division, Miaplacidus is situated within the sprawling Carina spiral arm of the Milky Way.
help Miaplacidus FAQ
How can you find Miaplacidus in the night sky?
Miaplacidus is Beta Carinae, the second-brightest star in Carina after Canopus. At an apparent magnitude of about 1.7, it is easy to see from much of the Southern Hemisphere but remains below the horizon from many northern locations.
What color and type of star is Miaplacidus?
Miaplacidus is a hot blue-white star generally classified in the A-type subgiant or giant range. Its color contrasts with cooler orange stars such as nearby-looking Avior, although the two are not physically close companions.
How far away is Miaplacidus?
Parallax measurements place Beta Carinae at roughly 113 light-years from Earth. That makes it far more distant than Sirius, despite both appearing among the brighter stars in Earth's sky.
Is Miaplacidus part of the Southern Cross?
No, Miaplacidus belongs to Carina, the constellation representing the keel of the old ship Argo Navis. Crux, the Southern Cross, is a separate constellation, though both occupy the rich southern Milky Way region.
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