Angular Separation of Rigel and Betelgeuse in Orion
What is the angular separation in right ascension between Rigel and Betelgeuse?
(a) 10.16 deg
(b) 4.75 deg
(c) 10.19 deg
(d) 11.16 deg
(e) 0.677 deg
Final answer: Rigel and Betelgeuse, the two brightest stars in Orion, have an angular separation in right ascension of 10.16 degrees.Answer:
The angular separation in right ascension between Rigel and Betelgeuse is 10.16 degrees.
Rigel and Betelgeuse are the two brightest stars in the constellation Orion. They have distinct characteristics that make them easily recognizable in the night sky. Rigel, with a right ascension of 05h 14m 32s, and Betelgeuse, with a right ascension of 05h 55m 10s, have an angular separation in right ascension of 10.16 degrees.
The difference in right ascensions between Rigel and Betelgeuse is calculated by converting the time difference into decimal degrees. One hour of right ascension is equal to 15 degrees since the full circle of 360 degrees is spread across 24 hours. By converting the time difference of 40 min 38 sec between Rigel and Betelgeuse, we arrive at the angular separation of 10.16 degrees.
This angular separation provides astronomers with valuable information about the positions and distances of celestial objects in the night sky. Understanding the angular separation between stars helps in mapping out the cosmos and exploring the vast universe beyond our planet.