α (alpha Leonis) (Regulus) mags 1.3 and 7.6, sep 176”. Despite their wide separation, these two stars share a common proper motion. Regulus is yellow and the secondary a slightly pale yellow.
γ (gamma Leonis) (Algeiba) mags 2.6 and 3.8, sep 4.6”. Beautiful slow-moving binary; both yellow. Will need high power.
54 Leonis A visual magnitude of 6.3. You can split them at medium power, but a little more magnification may be needed. Both stars a blue/white.
ξ (xi Ursae Majoris) mags 4.3 and 4.8. Currently separated by 2.3". A rapidly-moving binary system with a period of about 60 years. A good test for a 3-inch scope.
ζ (zeta Ursae Majoris) (Mizar) mags 2.4 and 4.0, sep 14.4”. The first telescopic double discovered in1650. Like Cor Caroli, one of the finest pairs for small telescopes. It forms a naked eye pair with 4th magnitude Alcor, located 12’ to the east.
41 Ursae Majoris A nice pair at low power with a large seperation of 72". Main star is yellowish and the secondary bluish. Easy for a 3inch scope.
Clear and Dark Skies, Dave Holland
