Image Credit: NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center

An anticipated cosmic event involving a star, known as the 'Blaze Star' or T Coronae Borealis, has not yet occurred as initially projected for May and June. However, it is expected that this star is now on the verge of a significant explosion. Currently shining brightly at a magnitude similar to the North Star, T Coronae Borealis is categorized as a recurring nova, likely to illuminate the sky for a brief period before returning to its usual brightness.

Blaze Star, positioned in the Corona Borealis constellation roughly 3,000 light-years away from Earth, is part of a binary system comprising a large red giant star and a small hot white dwarf star. The two stars have a considerable age difference, with the red giant continuously feeding matter to the white dwarf until a detonation triggers an eruption. This phenomenon, known as a nova, results in a temporary increase in the white dwarf's brightness before returning to its normal state.

The upcoming nova event is expected to be visible to the naked eye for around a week, showcasing a sudden increase in brightness akin to a new star appearance. NASA indicates that the explosion may occur at any time, regardless of day or night.

Historically, this cyclical event has taken place approximately every 80 years, with the most recent observed in 1946. However, the heightened brightness this time suggests that the anticipated explosion may happen sooner, with the 1946 precursor event already unfolding. This pattern, known for over 800 years, allows viewers to observe and gather data during the heightened luminosity period.

As for the expected timing of the explosion, astronomers suggest that it could happen imminently.However, an exact date cannot be determined, but experts anticipate it will likely occur toward late September. The star is situated in the Corona Borealis constellation but will not be visible until the thermonuclear eruption. Despite this, you can still find it using other astronomical references. The simplest method involves locating the Big Dipper, beginning from there, and tracing the curve of its handle. Along the way, you will observe a prominent red star named Arcturus. Moving to the northeast, identify another star known as Vega, and in between these two, the Blaze Star will become visible.