Alpha Centauri B is the second star of a three-star group. Alpha Centauri A and Alpha Centauri B orbit each other in the typical binary star configuration at a distance approximately 11 astronomical units. Alpha Centauri B similarly proportioned to its mother star. Its size, temperature, and luminosity are all only slightly lower than Alpha Centauri A. Proxima Centauri is extremely dim, and has no notable effect on the Alpha Centauri A-B pair.

The space within the influence of the Alpha Centauri stars is littered with debris. Comets of every shape and size orbit at irregular distances. Asteroids and planet fragments are everywhere in this system as well. While there are many theories that attempt to explain the presence of so much debris, the most likely theory was proposed by Doctor T'Ni, a Vulcan physicist. She believes that the "random, electron-like orbital configuration of the various objects in [this] system is likely the result of [millions of] years of 'close-calls' in which the Centauri system inherited litter from passing clouds of interstellar matter."

The fact that its satellites orbit in a sphere rather than on a plane makes this system worthy of caution. Navigation by spacecraft not equipped with a navigational shield array is not recommended.