Astronomers from Santiago, Chile have captured an extraordinary image of a star known as WOH G64 in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a neighboring galaxy to the Milky Way. This image, taken using the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer, reveals a “behemoth” star in the final stages of its life, showing the star emitting gas and dust before an imminent supernova explosion.
The unprecedented image provided researchers with a rare opportunity to witness key moments in the star’s violent life cycle. Lead study author Keiichi Ohnaka described the discovery of an egg-shaped cocoon surrounding the star, raising excitement among astronomers as it may indicate a significant ejection of material before the star explodes.
WOH G64, a red supergiant star, is 2,000 times larger than our sun and is one of the largest and most luminous stars in its galaxy. Over the past decade, astronomers have observed significant changes in WOH G64, with the star dimming significantly. This dimming has been attributed to the release of gas and dust by the star, influencing the formation of a unique dust cocoon around it.
The astronomy team also suggested that an unseen companion star could be impacting the shape of the cocoon. If WOH G64 were to replace our sun, it would extend beyond the orbit of Jupiter, showcasing the sheer size and power of this star. The star’s explosion, if it occurs, could be visible to the naked eye.
Despite the significant changes observed in WOH G64 over the past years, it remains uncertain when the star will explode. The unpredictability of red supergiants like WOH G64 adds to the mystery and intrigue of these massive stars. The study of these celestial phenomena continues to captivate astronomers and researchers worldwide.
Recent advancements in telescope technology have allowed astronomers to capture these rare moments in a star’s life, providing invaluable insights into the workings of the universe. As scientists plan to observe WOH G64 further in the future, the anticipation of witnessing a dramatic spectacle in the cosmos grows. This ongoing research into the life and death of stars like WOH G64 opens up new avenues for exploration and discovery in the field of astrophysics.
