Spica is a rotating ellipsoidal variable, which is a non-eclipsing close binary star system where the stars are mutually distorted through their gravitational interaction. This effect causes the apparent magnitude of the star system to vary by 0.03 over an interval that matches the orbital period.

Jan 20, 2020 · Spica is the brightest star in the constellation of Virgo, and one of the 20 brightest stars in the night sky. It is the 17 th brightest star, and it is a spectroscopic binary star being a rotating ellipsoidal variable.

Spica, also known as Alpha Virginis, is the brightest star in the southern constellation Virgo and the 16th brightest star in the night sky. It has an apparent magnitude of 1.04, that can vary between 0.97 and 1.04.

May 19, 2024 · The star Spica – aka Alpha Virginis – is the brightest star in the constellation Virgo the Maiden. From a distance of about 250 light-years , Spica appears to us on Earth as a lone bluish...

Mar 19, 2014 · Fixed star Spica, Alpha Virginis, is a 1st magnitude spectroscopic binary star system in the ear of wheat of the Maiden, Virgo constellation. Magnitude variable 0.97 (0.97–1.04), spectral type B1V (B1III-IV + B2V).

Feb 15, 2025 · Spica, brightest star in the zodiacal constellation Virgo and one of the 15 brightest in the entire sky, having an apparent visual magnitude of 1.04. It is a bluish star; spectroscopic examination reveals Spica to be a binary with a four-day …

Aug 25, 2014 · Spica, Alpha Virginis, is the brightest star in the southern constellation Virgo and the 16th brightest star in the sky. It is a blue subgiant star located at a distance of 250 light years from Earth.

Apr 26, 2023 · Classified as B1 III and B2 V stars, Spica radiates a dazzling blue-white light, while the Sun remains a G-type main-sequence star. In terms of size, Spica's combined diameter surpasses that of the Sun, owing to its binary nature.

Apr 22, 2016 · The familiar star Spica (Alpha Virginis) is the fifteenth brightest star in the night sky, in part because it is relatively nearby, only about 250 light-years away. It is easy to find by following the arc of the Big Dipper's handle and using the mnemonic, "Arc to Arcturus (Alpha Bootes) and then spike to Spica."

Oct 7, 2024 · ‘B1’: Spica’s primary component is hotter and more massive than our Sun. ‘III-IV’: It’s an evolved star, transitioning from the main sequence’s upper end. These factors play a crucial part in Spica’s unique characteristics, including its …