Leo
☀2.37/3.64mag
Ø 4''

Drawing David Michalko

STF 1424 (Gamma Leonis) is a binary system located 130 light-years away from the Sun. The primary component is a K1III spectral class red giant with a diameter of 32 solar radii and a mass of 1.23 solar masses. Its companion is another red giant of spectral class G7III, with an estimated diameter of 10 solar radii and a mass of 2.5 solar masses, although these values are not precisely determined. Both components orbit around their common center of mass at a distance ranging from 23 AU to 313 AU, with a period approximately 554 years. The presence of one confirmed planet has been verified, a gas giant orbiting the primary component at a distance of 1.19 AU with a period of 428 days. The estimated mass of the planet is 8.8 Jupiter masses. There are indications of another potential planet orbiting at a distance of 2.6 AU from the primary component, with a period of 1340 days and an estimated mass of 2.14 Jupiter masses. However, these findings are yet to be confirmed.

72 mm - STF 1424 is a suitable and easily distinguishable target for small telescopes and novice observers. It can be resolved at magnifications as low as 96x, possibly even lower. Both components exhibit a noticeable orange tint.