Star profile

Psi Scorpii

3D likeness based on its real data · class A · ~8,500 K

What is Psi Scorpii

Psi Scorpii is a white main-sequence star with a hidden companion that eluded astronomers for decades. The hint of its binary nature, planted by the Hipparcos satellite, was only confirmed in 2025, when the GRAVITY instrument at the VLTI finally imaged the partner: 3.4 astronomical units away, with a ten-year orbit. It shines at 156 light-years, on the curved spine of the Scorpion.

Where it is and when to see it

Psi Scorpii lies in the southern celestial hemisphere. It is visible to the naked eye under a dark sky. Its best month of the year is May, when it culminates around midnight.

From London it culminates about 28° above the horizon.
From New York it culminates about 39° above the horizon.
From Sydney it culminates about 66° above the horizon.

It can be seen from anywhere south of 80° N.

It ranks no. 39 in brightness among the 104 stars of Scorpius in our catalogue. To find it, start from Antares, the brightest: it lies about 17° away (a fist at arm's length covers about 10°).

The light you see today left it about 160 years ago.

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Astronomical data for Psi Scorpii

Constellation: Scorpius
Apparent magnitude: 4.93
Distance: 155.6 light years
Coordinates (J2000): RA 243.000° · Dec -10.064°
Catalogue: HIP 79375 · HD 145570

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Other stars in Scorpius

Scorpius has 104 stars in Stelvia's catalogue. Here are a few of them.

See all 104 stars in Scorpius