| This article or subsection has an associated category. | Rigel systems |
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Locator logo showing the galaxy's Beta Quadrant.
The Rigel systems are two star systems in the galaxy's Beta Quadrant that are both commonly referred to as "Rigel".
- It is unclear if there is a greater overall connection between the systems to explain why they so frequently are referred two by the same name, or if it is simply coincidence and possibly confusion on the part of the various characters referring to them. In actuality, the dual naming was devised by writers and technical advisors to explain certain mentions of visits to Rigel in the early era of Star Trek space exploration, as the slow warp speeds of the time shouldn't have been able to frequently access the more distant "true" Rigel. The Chart History of the United Federation of Planets published in the second edition of ST reference: Stellar Cartography: The Starfleet Reference Library indicates that Rigel VII is Located in the real Rigel system which is consistent with ST reference: Star Charts where (Beta) Rigel VII is depicted to be a gas giant.
Rigel (Beta Orionis)
- Main article: Beta Orionis.
Star map of distant space showing Beta Orionis.
The Rigel system (also known as Beta Orionis or Kolar) is a major system that is quite distant from the core of the Federation (863 light-years from Sol, in a rimward direction), and probably the most notable to Earth astronomy due to observations throughout the history of Human science. This system is visible from Sol in the constellation of Orion. (ST reference: Star Charts)
Beta Rigel
- Main article: Beta Rigel.
System star map of Beta Rigel.
The Beta Rigel (also known as Raij'hl) system is located much closer the central Federation (about 90 light-years from Sol, below the galactic plane, in a rimward direction), in the Kandari sector. (ST reference: Star Charts; TNG novel: Conspiracy)
