Achernar

Achernar is the name of the primary (or 'A') component of the binary system designated Alpha Eridani (α Eridani).[1]

Achernar in the constellation Eridanus. Arrow = the position of Achernar (lower right)

Of the ten apparent brightest stars in the night-time sky, Alpha Eridani is the hottest and bluest in color, due to Achernar being of spectral type B. Achernar has an unusually rapid rotational velocity, causing it to become oblate in shape.

The secondary is smaller, of spectral type A, and orbits Achernar at a distance of about 12 astronomical units (AU).[2][3]

References
  1. "Naming Stars". IAU.org. Retrieved 16 December 2017.
  2. Ducati, J. R. (2002). "VizieR Online Data Catalog: Catalogue of Stellar Photometry in Johnson's 11-color system". CDS/ADC Collection of Electronic Catalogues. 2237: 0. Bibcode:2002yCat.2237....0D.
  3. Samus N.N. & Durlevich O.V.; et al. (2009). "VizieR Online Data Catalog: General Catalogue of Variable Stars (Samus+ 2007–2013)". VizieR On-line Data Catalog: B/GCVS. Originally Published in: 2009yCat....102025S. 1: 02025. Bibcode:2009yCat....102025S.
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