HD 63744

HD 63744 is a G-type main-sequence star located approximately 122 light-years away in the constellation Camelopardalis. It is slightly more massive and luminous than the Sun.

Stellar Characteristics

HD 63744 is classified as a G5V star, indicating a yellow dwarf star that is fusing hydrogen in its core. Its effective temperature is similar to the Sun's, resulting in a similar color. It has a slightly higher metallicity than the Sun, meaning it contains a greater abundance of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium.

Planetary System

In 2006, a planet, designated HD 63744 b, was discovered orbiting the star using the radial velocity method. This method detects planets by observing the "wobble" in a star's motion caused by the gravitational pull of an orbiting planet. HD 63744 b is a gas giant with a mass at least 1.07 times that of Jupiter and orbits its star at a distance of approximately 2.6 astronomical units (AU) with a period of roughly 1250 days. The planet's eccentricity is relatively low, indicating a nearly circular orbit.

Observational Information

HD 63744 is not visible to the naked eye and requires a telescope to be observed. Its coordinates are approximately right ascension 07h 52m 04.68s and declination +55° 58′ 24.1″.

Significance

HD 63744 is of interest to astronomers studying exoplanets and stellar evolution. The presence of a Jupiter-like planet orbiting a Sun-like star helps researchers to understand the formation and evolution of planetary systems. Studies of the star's metallicity and planetary orbital characteristics can contribute to a broader understanding of the relationship between star and planet properties.