Visual binaries are pairs of stars that appear close together in the sky when viewed from Earth. These stars are not necessarily physically close to each other; they may be at different distances from us. Astronomers can observe their positions and movements over time to determine their relationship and characteristics.
The study of visual binaries helps scientists understand stellar formation and evolution. By measuring the stars' brightness and separation, researchers can calculate their masses and other properties. This information contributes to our knowledge of the Milky Way and the dynamics of star systems.