Beta Centauri, also known as Beta Cen, is a bright star located in the constellation of Centaurus. It is approximately 500 light-years away from Earth and is one of the closest stars to our solar system. Beta Centauri is a binary star system, consisting of two massive stars that orbit each other. The primary star, Beta Centauri A, is a blue giant, while its companion, Beta Centauri B, is slightly smaller and also a blue star. Together, they are among the most luminous stars in the Milky Way galaxy, contributing to the overall brightness of the Centaurus constellation.