Astronomers predict that a white dwarf star close to us will explode in a dramatic nova. This star is in the T Coronae Borealis system, which is 3,000 light years away from Earth. The explosion is expected to happen between now and September 2024. It will be bright enough to see with the naked eye.
T Coronae Borealis (T CrB)
The T Coronae Borealis (T CrB) system consists of two stars. One is a red giant star. The other is a super dense, Earth-sized white dwarf star. This combination is called a cataclysmic variable because it behaves violently. The white dwarf captures material from the red giant due to gravity. This leads to an explosion every 80 years.
During the explosion, T CrB will become bright enough to rival the intensity of the North Star, Polaris. It will appear as a bright star near the constellation Corona Borealis in the northern hemisphere. This event will provide an incredible opportunity for stargazers and astronomers alike.
A nova explosion occurs when a white dwarf star attracts material from a red giant star. This event is called stellar cannibalism. It occurs due to the strong gravitational pull of the white dwarf. When the white dwarf gains enough mass, it triggers a bright thermonuclear explosion. This explosion emits radiation that can be seen from Earth.
Exploring the Enigma of T CrB
T CrB has had explosive cycles for hundreds of years. Its most recent event was in 1946. Astronomers recently noticed that the system’s light is dimming. They predict the next explosion will happen between now and September 2024.
The explosion will be located in the constellation Corona Borealis and will likely be visible to the naked eye for several days. For those with binoculars or a telescope, it may be visible for even longer. Unlike a supernova, this nova explosion will not signal the death of the white dwarf star. Instead, it will continue to collect material from the red giant, preparing for another explosive event in 80 years.
T CrB belongs to a group of just five star systems. These systems are known for regularly producing bright nova explosions. This makes it an invaluable opportunity for astronomers to study and better understand these dramatic outbursts and their effects on star system evolution.
Reference
https://blogs.nasa.gov/Watch_the_Skies/2024/02/27/view-nova-explosion-new-star-in-northern-crown
Thanks for reading!
Check out ENTECH magazine at entechonline.com for articles by experienced professionals, innovators, and researchers.
