MIZAR Meaning and
Definition
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Mizar is a noun referring to a prominent double star system in the constellation Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear or Big Dipper. It is located approximately 80 light-years away from Earth. Composed of two stars, Mizar is a binary star system where one star orbits the other. The primary star, Mizar A, is a spectroscopic binary, meaning it appears as a single point of light but actually consists of two stars that cannot be individually resolved with telescopes. The companion star, known as Mizar B, is a visual binary, as the two stars can be seen as separate entities when observed through telescopes. These two stars share a common center of mass and complete an orbit around each other over a period of around 20 days.
Mizar is a notable celestial object with cultural significance. It has been observed since ancient times and holds importance in various cultural and mythological beliefs. In fact, Mizar is a known component of the stellar asterism commonly referred to as the "Big Dipper" or "Plough." Its distinctive position in the sky and easy visual identification have made it a popular reference point for navigation and orientation in many cultures.
Overall, Mizar refers to a binary star system in the Ursa Major constellation, consisting of two stars that orbit around a common center of mass and serve as a prominent celestial object with cultural and navigational significance.
Common Misspellings for MIZAR
Etymology of MIZAR
The word "mizar" has an interesting etymology. It comes from Arabic "mi'zar" (مئزر), which means "apron" or "girdle". The star Mizar, which is the second-brightest star in the constellation Ursa Major, was given this name in Arabic because it is the middle star in the handle of the Big Dipper, resembling a waist apron worn by traditional Middle Eastern peasants. The term "mizar" eventually became adopted into English and other languages to refer to this specific star.
