A rare astronomical event is expected to occur soon, as the star T Coronae Borealis (T CrB) is poised to erupt. Located in the constellation Corona Borealis, T CrB is a white dwarf that periodically experiences a dramatic increase in brightness, becoming visible to the naked eye.
T CrB’s outbursts occur due to its interaction with a red giant companion. As the white dwarf accretes gas from the red giant, the pressure and temperature inside it rise dramatically, triggering a thermonuclear explosion. This makes the star shine 1,500 times brighter than usual, briefly making it a “new star” in the night sky.
This event is anticipated to occur sometime before October, with the peak brightness lasting only a few hours. Amateur astronomers are actively monitoring T CrB, eager to be the first to observe and report the eruption. The AAVSO, a dedicated organization, has a vast database of observations related to T CrB.
While T CrB is expected to be visible in the Southern Hemisphere, it will eventually disappear from view as the constellation Corona Borealis moves out of the evening sky. This event presents a unique opportunity to witness a celestial phenomenon that occurs only once every 80 years, highlighting the continuous collaboration between professional and amateur astronomers in unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos.