Mizar/Alcor
This is a double star and is the middle star of the
handle in the Plough. It is not a true binary star but a line of sight
effect. Some writers claim it can be viewed with the naked eye but I’ve
found it needs a very clear night. Mizar is the brighter of the two stars
and is a true binary in its own right. It cannot be split in binoculars
but the higher magnification of a small telescope will do it.
Mizar is at RA 13h 23.9m Dec +54 deg 56 min.
Mizar and Alcor are visible all year round.
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