Luminosity

usgb/ˌluːmɪˈnɑːsəti/
noun

The brightness of a star or other astral object as seen from earth.

The luminosity of the star Vega is about 40 times that of our sun.
Visual representation of "luminosity" - The brightness of a star or other astral object as seen from earth.

Often appears as...

  • absolute luminosity
  • apparent luminosity

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Technical

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "luminosity"
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Scope of Comparison

Luminosity in astronomy usually involves comparisons with known brightness references like our Sun.

Illustration for Scope of Comparison
The luminosity of Sirius is almost twice that compared to our Sun.
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Not Surface Brightness

Luminosity is the total light emitted, not just how bright a star appears on the surface.

Illustration for Not Surface Brightness
Despite its size, the luminosity of Betelgeuse is due to its total energy output.
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Measurement Complexity

Astronomical luminosity is complex, taking into account distance and inherent brightness.

Illustration for Measurement Complexity
Astronomers study a star's spectrum to accurately determine its luminosity.
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brightbrillianceeffulgenceglowincandescenceiridescencelightradianceshimmersplendour
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Visual representation of the word "Luminosity"

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