"Upcoming Explosion of the Blaze Star: Viewing Tips and Location Guide"
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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NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center credits the image. Despite expectations for the ‘Blaze Star,’ also known as T Coronae Borealis, to explode in May and June, there have been no signs of this cosmic event as of yet. However, it is anticipated that the explosion is imminent. T Coronae Borealis, shining at a magnitude of +2 similar to the North Star, is a recurring nova. It will briefly illuminate the sky with its brightness for a week or two before returning to its original intensity. Currently located in the constellation Corona Borealis about 3,000 light-years away from Earth, it would take approximately 57 million years to reach the star traveling at a speed of 35,000 mph.

The ‘Blaze Star’ is part of a two-star system, comprising a large and cool red giant star and a small, hot white dwarf star orbiting each other. There is a substantial age difference between the two stars, with the red giant star releasing matter that is absorbed by the white dwarf star leading to periodic detonations. The white dwarf star brightens in the sky but does not disintegrate; eventually returning to its original brightness. This explosive event, known as a nova, will be visible to the naked eye for a week, giving the appearance of a new star appearing suddenly in the sky. The explosion can occur at any time, day or night, and this cosmic event typically occurs every 80 years. The last recorded nova was in 1946, but this upcoming event is expected earlier due to precursory activities noted already. This cycle has been recurring since its discovery more than 800 years ago, allowing viewers to witness and collect data on the bright event. Astronomers predict that the explosion could happen at any moment.Although an exact date cannot be determined, experts predict that the event will probably take place in late September. To find the star, first look for the constellation Corona Borealis. The star will become visible after a thermonuclear eruption. If you are having trouble locating it, you can use other astronomical techniques. One method is to identify the Big Dipper and then track the curve of its handle. Along the way, you will encounter a vivid red star named Arcturus. In the northeast region, discover another star named Vega, and in the space between the two is where the Blaze Star will be situated.