NASA announces 'once-in-a-lifetime event' this summer
Chris Lawson
June 20, 2024
The explosion date
NASA scientists predict a forthcoming nova event from an Earth-sized remnant star about 3,000 light years away. The burst of light will be visible to the naked eye on Earth.
The specific explosion date remains unknown as NASA monitors the situation.
Firsthand cosmic observation
Described as a unique and rare occurrence, the anticipated nova explosion is expected to captivate aspiring astronomers, providing a firsthand cosmic observation opportunity for young enthusiasts to engage with and explore.
NASA researchers
NASA researchers anticipate this spectacular event, visible to the naked eye from Earth in the summer of 2024. Rebekah Hounsell, an expert in nova phenomena at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, emphasizes the educational and observational value this event will offer to curious minds.
Front-row seat
Hounsell explained, "There are a few recurrent novae with very short cycles, but typically, we don’t often see a repeated outburst in a human lifetime, and rarely one so relatively close to our own system. It’s incredibly exciting to have this front-row seat."
Rise to eruption
Elizabeth Hays, chief of the Astroparticle Physics Laboratory at NASA Goddard, said, "It’s equally critical to obtain data during the early rise to eruption — so the data collected by those avid citizen scientists on the lookout now for the nova will contribute dramatically to our findings."
A nova event
A nova event, distinct from a supernova, involves a dwarf star where material is ejected into space in a bright flash, leaving the star intact. This cycle can repeat over tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of years, as described by NASA.
Unpredictable and contrarian
NASA astrophysicist Koji Mukai said, "Recurrent novae are unpredictable and contrarian." Novae can "deviate from it completely, Mukai added. "We'll see how T CrB (scientific name for ‘Blaze Star’) behaves," he said.
American stargazers
For American stargazers, NASA recommends preparing to spot the upcoming brief burst of light visible for less than a week, which may occur unexpectedly due to the uncertain timing of the nova event as of mid-June.
Stargazers
Stargazers are advised to start by locating the Northern Crown, a celestial formation near the Hercules constellation.
Prime viewing
Following a line between the prominent Northern Hemisphere stars Arcturus and Vega will guide observers to the Hercules constellation and Corona Borealis, the prime viewing area for the anticipated bright phenomenon.
Summer months
"Look up after sunset during summer months to find Hercules, then scan between Vega and Arcturus, where the distinct pattern of Corona Borealis may be identified," NASA said.
Blaze Star
The history of the 'Blaze Star' nova includes its first recorded sighting in 1217 and its last observed occurrence in 1946. This event offers scientists a unique opportunity for observation due to advancements in technology and the star's proximity to Earth.
Valuable insights
NASA scientists aim to study the nova from its peak to its decline, providing valuable insights as the visible energy of the outburst diminishes.
Youtube
