Eta Aquilae is an interesting Cepheid variable, easily studied with binoculars. The range of variation is from 3.7 to 4.5, and by comparing with beta (3.7, to the north in the same field of view) one can gauge eta's magnitude. Experienced observers can even notice the variations with the naked eye.

The star is due south of Altair just over one binocular field of view: binoculars.