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Anyone know a good site to check up on how the star algol varies in brightness and how long its average cycle is?
The variation in Algol's brightness is caused by a binary star system where one star is larger and brighter than the other, known as an eclipsing binary. As the smaller star passes in front of the larger star, it causes a decrease in overall brightness.
The brightness of Algol varies every 2.867 days, which is known as the period of the binary system. This is the time it takes for the smaller star to complete one orbit around the larger star.
The maximum brightness of Algol is about 2.1 magnitudes, while the minimum brightness is around 3.4 magnitudes. This means that the star's brightness varies by about 1.3 magnitudes during each cycle.
Yes, Algol's brightness is easily visible to the naked eye during its minimum and maximum phases. However, a telescope or binoculars may be needed to accurately measure its brightness during the minimum phase.
Scientists study Algol's brightness variation through photometry, which is the measurement of light intensity. They use specialized equipment, such as photometers or telescopes, to measure the star's brightness at different phases and gather data to analyze the pattern and characteristics of its variation.