What does a black star without a circle represent on a Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR)?

A black star without a circle on a Standard Terminal Arrival Route (STAR) indicates a fly-by point. This type of point is designed for aircraft to pass closely to it without having to overfly or make a significant maneuver to reach it. The significance of a fly-by point is that it allows for a more fluid and efficient approach as the aircraft can continue to navigate while still observing the point of interest, typically using it for navigation reference rather than as a mandatory waypoint.

In contrast to other types of points, such as required holding points, where specific actions or holds must be taken, or non-compliance points, which indicate areas that require attention for regulatory reasons, the fly-by point offers more operational flexibility—facilitating smoother transitions during approaches. Understanding these designations is crucial for pilots to effectively manage their flight paths and ensure adherence to air traffic control procedures during terminal operations.