Astronomers Capture First High-Resolution Images of Spotted Polaris

New observations reveal unexpected surface features and refined measurements of the North Star's mass and size.

Researchers used the CHARA Array to obtain unprecedented close-up images of Polaris, revealing bright and dark spots on its surface.
Polaris, a Cepheid variable star, is crucial for measuring cosmic distances due to its predictable pulsation period.
The star's mass is now estimated to be five times that of the Sun, with a diameter 46 times larger.
Polaris is part of a triple-star system, with a faint companion orbiting it every 30 years.
The findings challenge current models of stellar evolution and open new avenues for understanding Cepheid variables.