"Prepare to Witness the Impending Explosion of the Blaze Star: A Guide to Watching and Locating"
Image Credit: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center A star that was supposed to explode in May and June has yet to show any signs of doing so. However, it is expected that the ‘Blaze Star,’ also known ...
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The 'Blaze Star,' also known as T Coronae Borealis, was expected to explode in May and June, but has not shown any signs of doing so yet. However, it is anticipated that the star is now on the path towards a cosmic explosion. T Coronae Borealis, shining at a magnitude of +2 similar to the North Star, is a recurring nova that will briefly illuminate the sky before returning to its original brightness. Situated in the Corona Borealis constellation about 3,000 light-years away, reaching this star would take around 57 million years traveling at 35,000 mph. This star is part of a two-star system, featuring a large red giant star and a small white dwarf star with a significant age gap. The exploding material from the red giant is drawn into the white dwarf until a detonation occurs. This event, known as a nova, causes the white dwarf to appear brighter in the sky temporarily. The upcoming nova event will resemble a new star appearing in the sky and can be viewed with the naked eye for approximately a week. NASA states that the explosion can happen during the day or night. This cosmic event, occurring every 80 years, last took place in 1946, but this time the anticipated increase in brightness will happen two years early due to precursory events. This cycle, observed for over 800 years, provides an opportunity for viewers to witness the event visually and gather data. Astronomers predict the explosion to occur soon.However, an exact date for the event cannot be determined, although experts anticipate it will likely occur towards the end of September. To find the star, which is located in the Corona Borealis constellation, you will need to wait for the thermonuclear eruption. In the meantime, you can use other astronomical methods to locate it. The simplest way is to first identify the Big Dipper, then follow the curve of its handle. Eventually, you will spot a bright red star known as Arcturus. Moving towards the northeast, locate a star named Vega, and in between these two stars, you will find the Blaze Star.