The Great North American Eclipse has passed but skywatchers will soon have the opportunity to see something NASA experts are describing as a “once-in-a-lifetime” event. A star system located 3,000 light-years away from Earth is predicted to soon become visible to the naked eye due to a nova outburst, an occurrence that only takes place about every 80 years. The “blaze star,” officially known as T Coronae Borealis, or T CrB, last exploded in 1946 and astronomers believe it will do it again sometime between February and September 2024.
Bill Cooke, lead for NASA’s Meteoroid Environment Office at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, said the timing of the explosion is much harder to predict than the eclipse but said when it happens it will be “something you’ll remember.”
“Seeing that star blow up is much rarer than a solar eclipse,” Cooke told NPR. “So, it’s kind of a once-in-a-lifetime thing.”
The star system is typically far too dim to see with the unaided eye but will jump to the brightness of Polaris, the North Star, during the event. When that occurs, it will be visible for several days and even longer if you use binoculars.
The outburst will take place near the constellation Corona Borealis, or the Northern Crown, a small, semicircular arc bear Bootes and Hercules, NASA said. This is where the outburst will appear as “new” bright star.
According to NASA, the recurring nova is one of only five in our galaxy.
Analysis:
The potential future trends related to this rare celestial event are intriguing and could have implications for scientific research, space exploration, and public interest in astronomy. With advancements in technology and increased accessibility to information, the visibility of such rare phenomena is capturing the imagination of people worldwide.
One potential trend that could emerge is a heightened focus on deep space observation. As people become aware of the rare occurrence of a nova outburst in our galaxy, there may be a greater demand for telescopes and other observation equipment. This could drive innovation in the field of astronomy and lead to new discoveries about our universe.
The public’s interest in astronomy and celestial events could also increase. The excitement surrounding the Great North American Eclipse earlier this year demonstrated the widespread fascination with cosmic phenomena. As the news spreads about the upcoming nova outburst, more people may seek opportunities to witness these rare events firsthand or through live streams and recordings. This could lead to a surge in public engagement with astronomy and space exploration.
Furthermore, the occurrence of such events could inspire future generations of scientists and space enthusiasts. The mystique and rarity of a nova outburst may capture the imaginations of young minds, sparking an interest in science and astronomy. Educational institutions and organizations may seize this opportunity to enhance astronomy programs and provide resources for students to learn more about the wonders of the universe.
Another potential trend relates to the collaboration between NASA and other space agencies globally. As the anticipation builds for the nova outburst, scientists and researchers from different countries may come together to observe and study the phenomenon. This could lead to collaborative efforts in sharing data, conducting joint research projects, and fostering international cooperation in space exploration.
In terms of recommendations for the industry, it is essential for space agencies, news organizations, and educational institutions to leverage the public interest in celestial events like the upcoming nova outburst. This can be done through educational outreach programs, live streaming initiatives, and partnerships with observatories and research institutions. By making astronomy more accessible and engaging, the industry can inspire a new generation of space enthusiasts and contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge.