119 Tauri and R Leporis

[orion25]

Two of the night sky's reddest variables were photographed at r.j.s observatory over the weekend. 119 Tauri (the Ruby Star) can be seen with the naked eye just below Zeta Tauri and is a variable red supergiant in the last stages of its evolution.  R Leporis (Hind's Crimson Star), just below the constellation of Orion, is also a variable supergiant but with an abundance of carbon in its atmosphere contributing to its deep red color, especially when it is dim. It is a bit fainter than 119 Tauri and must be viewed through binoculars or a telescope. I like to use my reflector scope to see both of these stars as their red colors form a striking contrast to the background (especially R Leporis):

 

 

Clear skies!

Reggie 🚀