The world is about to witness an extraordinary astronomical event that may have been first documented in 1217. We are talking about another explosion of the star T Coronae Borealis, known as the Blaze Star. This rare event occurs in a binary star system consisting of a white dwarf and a red giant, located 3000 light-years from Earth.

An unexpected interaction between stars

These two stars are so close to each other that the gravitational forces of the white dwarf pull the material of the red giant. This process results in a thermonuclear explosion on the white dwarf’s surface, causing the star’s brightness to increase significantly. An event known as a nova becomes visible to the naked eye and occurs approximately every 80 years.

historical observations

Thanks to documentation of observations in 1866 and 1946, scientists were able to trace the cyclical nature of these stellar explosions. However, according to some data, the history of these events may have much older roots. Research by University of Louisiana professor Bradley Schaefer suggests that similar events could have occurred in the Middle Ages.

Schaefer analyzes an account made by Abbot Burchard of Upsberg in 1217, in which an unusually bright star in the constellation of the Crown of the North is described as “shining with great light” and lasting “many days.” This description fits the properties of the new T CrB very well.

Modern meaning and observation

Astronomers are eagerly awaiting the next explosion, which is predicted to occur soon. The American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO) states that, according to the latest data, the star is already showing signs of extinction and this may precede its new explosion. Scientists hypothesize that the full cycle of this event could occur as early as 2024.

Importance for the scientific community

This expected explosion will provide astronomers with a unique opportunity to study the processes that occur during a star explosion and their effects on the surrounding space environment. The information gained through this observation can reveal new aspects of the behavior and interaction mechanisms of stars. It could also help us improve our models of stellar aging and evolution.

Beyond scientific interest, the upcoming T CrB explosion will be a significant event for amateur astronomers and the public. It will be possible to observe such a phenomenon with the naked eye, which will make astronomy more accessible and interesting to people who are not professionally related to science. Revitalizing interest in space and stellar phenomena can encourage young people to explore scientific disciplines and expand their horizons of knowledge. Source