Triple star in the constellation Centaurus, the faintest component of which, Proxima Centauri, is currently the closest star to the Sun (about 4.2 light-years away). The two brighter components are about 0.2 light-year farther from the Sun. As seen from Earth, the system is the third brightest star (after Sirius and Canopus); Proxima is indistinguishable as a separate star to the unaided eye. Alpha Centauri can be seen from Earth's surface only from points south of about 40° N
The brightest star in the southern constellation of Centaurus. Alpha Centauri is actually a binary star with Alpha Centauri C or Proxima Centauri as a third component. Alpha Centauri A is the brightest star of the system and is somewhat brighter than our sun. Alpha Centauri B is somewhat fainter than Alpha Centauri A but much brighter than Proxima Centauri
The brightest star in the southern constellation of Centaurus. Alpha Centauri is actually a binary star with Proxima Centauri as a third component. Alpha Centauri B is less bright than Alpha Centauri A and is somewhat less bright than our sun