Deneb Kaitos

Spectral class: K0III
U−B color index +0.88
B−V color index +1.01
Variable type: Rotationally
Absolute magnitude: –0.13
Surface gravity (log g) 2.7 cgs
Temperature: 4797 K
Metallicity [Fe/H] –0.09 dex
Rotational velocity (v sin i) 18 km/s
Age: > 1 Gyr

An orange giant star, also known as Diphda and Beta Ceti.

Some sources list a spectral classification of G9.5 III, indicating that it lies along the dividing line separating G-type from K-type stars. The luminosity class of 'III' means that it is a giant star that has consumed the hydrogen at its core and evolved away from an A-type main sequence star. After passing through the red giant stage, it underwent a helium flash event and is presently generating energy through the thermonuclear fusion of helium at its core. Deneb Kaitos will remain in this mode for over 100 million years.

The effective temperature of the star's outer envelope is about 4,797 K, giving it the characteristic orange hue of a K-type star.

This star displays flaring activity that results in random outbursts that increase the luminosity of the star over intervals lasting several days. Relatively high rates of X-ray emissions have been detected from the star.