To find out the name of a specific star or stars you see in the sky, you can follow these steps:
Identify the star: Observe the position of the star(s) in the night sky. Note any distinct patterns or nearby constellations that can help you locate it.
Use a stargazing app or software: There are numerous stargazing apps available for smartphones and tablets that can help you identify stars and other celestial objects. Some popular apps include SkyView, Star Walk, and Stellarium. These apps use your device's GPS and orientation sensors to provide an interactive sky map, allowing you to point your device at the star and receive information about it, including its name, brightness, and other details.
Online databases and resources: If you prefer to use a computer or want to cross-reference the information, there are online databases and resources specifically designed for star identification. Websites like Stellarium Web, Sky & Telescope's Interactive Sky Chart, and the International Astronomical Union's (IAU) "Sky & Telescope" offer interactive sky maps that allow you to search for specific stars and constellations.
Star atlases and books: Physical star atlases and astronomy books can also provide valuable information about stars and their names. These resources often include detailed star charts and descriptions of individual stars, including their designations, magnitudes, and other relevant data.
Remember that the brightness and visibility of stars can vary depending on your location, local light pollution, and atmospheric conditions. Additionally, it's important to be patient and give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness to better observe the stars.