Astronomers in Los Angeles, California are anticipating the appearance of a “new star” in the night sky sometime between now and September. This celestial event, expected to be a once-in-a-lifetime occurrence, will be a nova visible in the Milky Way’s Corona Borealis constellation. Novae are sudden, brief explosions from collapsed stars known as white dwarfs, unlike supernovae, which are the explosive deaths of massive stars.
T Coronae Borealis, also known as the “Blaze Star,” is a binary system in Corona Borealis consisting of a dead white dwarf star and an aging red giant star. The interaction between these stars leads to instability in the red giant, causing it to release outer layers to the white dwarf, eventually resulting in a nova. The upcoming nova in the T Coronae Borealis system is expected to reach a brightness comparable to Polaris, the North Star.
Experts believe that the nova will be visible for a few days without the need for equipment, and with binoculars for just over a week before fading from sight for another 80 years. Once the nova peaks in brightness, it will appear as if a new star has emerged in the sky, creating a captivating sight for stargazers in the Northern Hemisphere.
Astronomers will closely observe the nova using the Hubble Space Telescope and study it further through X-ray and ultraviolet light with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory in space. Understanding recurring novae like T Coronae Borealis provides valuable insights into the mass transfer between stars in these systems and the thermonuclear processes that occur during a nova explosion on the white dwarf’s surface.
William J. Cooke, NASA Meteoroid Environments Office lead, emphasized the significance of studying novae like T Coronae Borealis to gain a deeper understanding of these celestial events. By monitoring the outburst and tracking its appearance, scientists hope to uncover more about the dynamics of the nova and its impact on the surrounding space.
The upcoming sighting of the nova in the Corona Borealis constellation presents a unique opportunity for astronomers to witness a rare celestial event and expand their knowledge of the universe. With advancements in technology and the collaboration of experts worldwide, the study and observation of events like novae continue to shed light on the mysteries of the cosmos, captivating both professionals and amateur stargazers alike.