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Mira

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description Mira Overview

Mira, designated Omicron Ceti, is a red giant star located approximately 420 light-years away in the constellation Cetus. It serves as the prototype for a class of long-period variable stars, known as Mira variables, which undergo dramatic changes in brightness due to physical pulsations. The star's apparent magnitude fluctuates over a cycle of roughly 332 days, varying from being clearly visible to the naked eye to requiring a telescope to observe. Astronomers extensively study Mira to better understand the late stages of stellar evolution and the mechanisms of mass loss in dying stars.

help Mira FAQ

What type of variable star is Mira?

Mira, also known as Omicron Ceti, is the prototype of the long-period Mira-type variable stars. These stars pulsate over extended periods, dramatically changing their brightness over time.

How long is the pulsation cycle of Mira?

Mira pulsates over a roughly 332-day cycle. During this cycle, its apparent magnitude fluctuates wildly, moving from naked-eye visibility to a level of telescopic faintness that makes it invisible to the unaided eye.

How far is Mira from Earth?

Mira is located approximately 420 light-years away from Earth. Its immense variations in brightness have made it one of the most closely observed stars in astronomical history.

What is notable about Mira's physical structure?

Besides being a pulsating variable, Mira is a dying red giant star that is shedding its outer layers into space. Space telescope observations have revealed that it is traveling through space at a high velocity, creating a tail of shed material similar to a comet.

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