The universe occasionally presents us with visual spectacles that remind us of the immensity of the cosmos. In the coming days, we may witness an extraordinary astronomical event: the explosion of a star in the Corona Borealis constellation, allowing observers on Earth to see it with the naked eye.
This phenomenon, known as recurrent nova, occurs in the star system T Coronae Borealis (T CrB), located about 3.000 light years away. Astronomers have been closely monitoring its progress and believe an eruption is imminent.
What is a recurrent nova?
Recurrent novae are explosions that occur in star systems composed of a white dwarf and a red giantThe white dwarf acts as a kind of "cosmic vampire," absorbing material from its companion star. Over time, the accumulation of hydrogen on the surface of the white dwarf triggers a reaction thermonuclear, causing a sudden increase in brightness.
The interesting thing is that, unlike supernovae, in which the star is completely destroyed, in these cases the explosion only affects the surface of the white dwarf, allowing the process to be repeated in ciclos that can last for years or even decades.
An event that occurs every few decades
Records indicate that T Coronae Borealis has experienced explosions in 1217, 1787, 1866 and 1946Following this pattern, astronomers have been on the lookout for any signs that herald a new eruption.
One of the clearest signs that the explosion is near is the so-called Pre-eruption Dip, a previous decrease in the star's brightness. This same phenomenon was detected in March 2023, just as it was before the 1946 explosion, so everything points to the nova occurring soon.
When and where to watch it?
According to estimates by astronomers at the Louisiana State University and the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO), the explosion could occur the March 27At that point, the brightness of the system will increase to match or even exceed that of some of the the brightest stars of the night sky.
To locate the explosion in the sky, you have to look for the Corona Borealis constellation, which is located between the stars Arcturus and VegaThis constellation is visible in the northern hemisphere and can be identified by its arch shape.
In the optimal viewing, it is recommended to look for places away from cities, where light pollution is minimal. During the night of the event, the star will shine with a magnitude close to 2, which means it will be easily visible to the naked eye.
An astronomical event not to be missed
The astronomer Franck Marchis of the SETI Institute, points out that although predictions are based on models and previous observations, there is still a small margin of uncertainty regarding the exact date of the outbreak. However, all signs point to it happening in a matter of days.
What makes this phenomenon special is that it doesn't happen often. Many people never get to witness such an event in their lifetime, so this could be one of the few opportunities to observe such a phenomenon without having to telescopes nor other instruments.
Throughout history, different civilizations have recorded nova explosions and attempted to give them mythological explanations. Today, thanks to modern astronomy, we know that these events are the result of physical processes well studied, but they are still impressive events worthy of admiration.
The coming nights could bring a spectacle worth remembering. If astronomers' predictions come true, this will be a milestone event for space observation in the 21st century. So, it's best to be prepared and turn your gaze to the sky in search of this burst of light that the universe will gift us.
