Astronomy and Space

Gamma Velorum

Gamma Velorum is a double star in the constellation Vela, with each of the two stars a spectroscopic binary. This name is the Bayer designation for the star, which is Latinised from γ Velorum and abbreviated γ Vel. At a combined magnitude of +1.72, it is one of the brightest stars in the night sky, and contains by far the closest and brightest Wolf–Rayet star. It has the traditional name Suhail al Muhlif and the modern name Regor , but neither is approved by the International Astronomical Union, making it the brightest star by apparent magnitude without an IAU approved name. The γ Velorum system includes a pair of stars separated by 41″, each of which is also a spectroscopic binary system. γ2 Velorum, the brighter of the visible pair, contains the Wolf–Rayet star and a blue supergiant, while γ1 Velorum contains a blue giant and an unseen companion.

Also on this shelf

See also

• ▸Delta IV Heavy
• ▸Ghedi
• ▸Astronomical filter

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