Upcoming Explosion of Blaze Star: How to Observe and Locate It
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 star known as 'Blaze Star' or T Coronae Borealis, expected to explode in May and June, has not shown any signs of doing so yet. However, it is anticipated that this cosmic explosion is imminent. Located in the constellation Corona Borealis about 3,000 light-years away from Earth, Blaze Star is part of a two-star system consisting of a red giant star and a white dwarf star. The white dwarf star, which receives matter from the red giant, experiences detonations resulting in bright eruptions known as novas. These events, visible for about a week to the naked eye, occur roughly every 80 years. The upcoming nova, possibly imminent, is expected to provide a spectacular visual display for observers.Experts are unable to determine a specific date for the event, but they anticipate it will likely occur in late September. To find the star, look for it in the constellation Corona Borealis, although it will not be visible until the thermonuclear eruption. You can still identify it using other astronomical references. Begin by locating the Big Dipper in the sky and follow the curve of its handle. A bright red star named Arcturus will be visible along this path. In the northeast, locate another star called Vega, and the Blaze Star will be situated between these two reference points.