Gamma Canis Majoris

γ Canis Maioris
Observation data
Epoch J2000.0      Equinox J2000.0
Constellation Canis Major
Right ascension 07h03m45.5s
Declination −15°38′00″
Apparent magnitude (V) +4.11
Distance 402 ± 31 ly
(123 ± 10 pc)
Spectral type B8II
Other designations
Muliphein, Muliphen, Isis, Mirza, 23 Canis Majoris, HR 2657, HD 53244, BD−15°1625, FK5 271, HIP 34045, SAO 152303, GC 9320

Gamma Canis Majoris (γ CMa, γ Canis Majoris) is a star in the constellation Canis Major. It has the traditional name Muliphein[1], not to be confused with Muhlifain, which is Gamma Centauri; both names derive from the same Arabic root, محلفين muħlifayn.

γ Canis Majoris is a blue-white B-type bright giant with an apparent magnitude of +4.11. It is approximately 402 light years from Earth.

It is unclear exactly why this relatively faint star was given the "gamma" designation, but it is possibly because it is in the same part of the constellation as Sirius (alpha) and Murzim (beta).

Modern legacy

Muliphein appears on the flag of Brazil, symbolising the state of Rondônia.[2]

Muliphen as the name

USS Muliphen (AKA-61) is once of United States navy ship.

References