By Alexander Merz · Updated on · Details checked on 14 September 2026
Antares is the brightest star in the constellation Scorpius: a red supergiant about 700 times the Sun’s diameter, roughly 550 light-years away, which stays low above the southern horizon from Central Europe.
At a glance: Brightness approx. 1.0 mag (slightly variable) · Distance approx. 550 light-years · Constellation Scorpius · Red supergiant, about 700 times the Sun’s diameter · Summer sky, low in the south
The Rival of Mars
Antares literally means “anti-Ares” – the rival of Mars. The name fits: its strikingly reddish twinkle resembles the Red Planet so closely that the two are repeatedly confused whenever Mars passes through Scorpius. Antares is a red supergiant of enormous proportions: placed where the Sun is, it would extend out beyond the orbit of Mars.
A Star at the End of Its Life
Like Betelgeuse, Antares has used up its hydrogen supply, has swelled to a hundred times its former size and will end its life as a supernova – sometime within the next tens of thousands to millions of years. It is already steadily losing matter and is shrouded in a reddish gas cloud; the region around Antares is among the most colourful astrophotography subjects in the sky.
Observing Antares
From Germany, Antares is a summer star with a handicap: it never climbs higher than about 12 degrees above the southern horizon. Best time: June and July around midnight, provided you have a clear view to the south. Through binoculars, 1.3 degrees to the west, the magnificent globular cluster M4 appears – a must-see target whenever Antares is in the field of view.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Antares red?
It is a cool red supergiant with a surface temperature of only around 3,500 degrees – cool stars shine reddish, hot ones bluish.
How big is Antares?
Around 700 solar diameters. Within the Solar System, its surface would extend beyond the orbit of Mars.
When can you see Antares in Germany?
In the summer months (May to August), low on the southern horizon – best around midnight with a clear view to the south.
Do people really confuse Antares with Mars?
Yes, regularly – both glow a striking red. The giveaway: Mars does not twinkle, whereas Antares, being a star, does.
⭐ What the sky is showing right now: The Night Sky in August 2026 · All Constellations at a Glance