Alpha (α) Scorpii

Alpha (α) Scorpii, also known as Antares, is a bright red supergiant star located in the constellation Scorpius. It is one of the largest and most luminous stars visible in the night sky and appears reddish due to its cool surface temperature. Antares is about 550 light-years away from Earth and is nearing the end of its life, with a size estimated to be over 700 times that of our Sun. Its name means "the rival of Mars," referencing its reddish color reminiscent of the planet. Antares is a prominent feature in the summer and fall skies in the southern hemisphere.