W Cygni is a semi-regular star that is very easy to find and observe. It is easily found close to the star cluster M39, which is not far from Alpha Cygni (Deneb).
W Cygni varies between 5.1 and 5.7, with a period of about 132 days. It’s variations can be easily followed with a small pair of binoculars, and is best observed once a week.
| Extreme brightness range | 5.1 – 8.9 |
| More typical range | 5.1 – 6.8 |
| Period of variation | 132 |
| Frequency of observation | Once a week |
| Observe using | Best observed with 50mm binoculars. |
| Visibility | Can be observed all year round, but is rather low in the evening sky from January to April |
