Dying Star Swallows Jupiter-Sized Planet In Real Time, Providing Glimpse Into Earth's Fate

Astronomers observed a distant star devouring a Jupiter-sized planet, marking the first time such an event has been witnessed in real time.
The discovery helps complete scientists' understanding of planetary evolution and the fate of Earth.
The event took place in a star system 12,000 light-years from Earth and involved a "hot Jupiter" planet orbiting perilously close to its star.
As stars age and die, they often expand dramatically, engulfing and destroying any planets in their path.
In about 5 billion years, the Sun will bloat into a red giant, likely swallowing Earth and the inner planets of the solar system.