T Coronae Borealis (T CrB), also known as the "Blaze Star," has been capturing our attention for decades due to its penchant for exploding, which is actually a recurrent Nova. Many scientists predicted that we would see something by September 2024, which might cause many to worry that they missed it. Fortunately, you have not. Keep reading while we explain what's going on with this unusual tar and how you can see it when it finally explodes.
What is T Coronae Borealis
T Coronae Borealis is a binary system with a small white dwarf and a large red giant. In this system, the white dwarf gradually accretes helium from the red giant, which builds up on the surface, increasing the pressure and temperature. In time, enough builds up that it ignites, triggering a thermonuclear explosion or nova. We can see this explosion from Earth as a sudden increase in brightness that can last several days. It occurs every several decades, with the last one taking place more than 75 years ago, making it a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Did I Miss the Next Explosion?
No, as of this writing, the T Coronae Borealis has not yet ignited the helium on the white dwarf. Although some speculated that the Blaze Star could erupt again any day, it has yet to do so. Astronomers continue to monitor the star closely for any signs of an impending explosion, such as changes in brightness or unusual activity in the system. However, the exact timing of these outbursts is notoriously difficult to predict. The Blaze Star could surprise us tomorrow, or it might wait another few decades.
Why Do Scientists the Blaze Star Will Explode Soon?
History dictates that T Coronae Borealis is a recurrent Nova with many examples of it exploding in the past, the last one occurring in 1946. Therefore, it will happen again, with the only question being when. Astronomers have been closely monitoring T CrB, and recent studies suggest changes in the system that might indicate an impending outburst. For example, there have been subtle variations in brightness and other activities that are consistent with the early stages of a nova event.
What to Watch For
If you want to witness the next eruption of the Blaze Star, keep watching the constellation Corona Borealis. It is visible in the northern hemisphere between the constellations of Boötes and Hercules. It forms a semicircular shape resembling a crown or a horseshoe.
The brightest star in Corona Borealis is Alphecca or Gemma in the center, and the Blaze star will be to the left of that. It may be hard to see without binoculars right now, but when the explosion occurs, it will be much brighter and easier to see with the naked eye.
- Learn where the constellation Corona Borealis is in the sky and check it daily so you will notice any changes that occur.
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