Altair - Brightest Star in Aquila

Altair is the brightest star of the constellation Aquila, which gives it the alpha designation. Altair is unique in the sense that it rotates quickly -- every 9 hours -- which gives the star an oblate spherical shape. It is fairly close to our own solar system at 16.7 light-years away, which is why it is bright in our sky. Learn more about the spectral class and shape of this beautiful star.