Mira Variables are a type of pulsating star that exhibit regular changes in brightness over time. These stars are typically red giants, and their brightness variations occur due to the expansion and contraction of their outer layers. The period of these fluctuations can range from about 80 to 1,000 days. The name "Mira" comes from the star Mira Ceti, which is one of the most well-known examples of this type. Astronomers study Mira Variables to learn more about stellar evolution and the processes that occur in the late stages of a star's life cycle.