Astronomers Anticipate 'Zombie Star' T Coronae Borealis' Rare Nova Event
The binary star system, inactive for 80 years, could soon brighten the night sky with a visible explosion.
- NASA describes T Coronae Borealis as a white dwarf in a binary system with a red giant, where material buildup triggers a nova.
- The star system, located 3,000 light-years away, last exploded in 1946 and is due for another visible eruption soon.
- When the nova occurs, T Coronae Borealis will become visible to the naked eye for about a week in the Northern Hemisphere.
- Scientists are eager to study the nova, as it distributes elements like carbon and oxygen into space, contributing to cosmic evolution.
- The event offers a rare chance for public observation and could inspire the next generation of astronomers.