Betelgeuse, also known as Beetle-juice, has long been a star of interest among amateur astronomers. Situated in the constellation Orion, this red supergiant has captured the imagination of stargazers for years. However, recent unexpected dimming episodes have brought even more attention to this celestial giant.
The dimming of Betelgeuse, which occurred towards the end of 2019 and returned to normal in the first half of 2020, has sparked a wave of speculation among astronomers. Referred to as ‘The Great Dimming,’ this event has raised questions about the underlying causes of the variability of this star.
A recent study suggests that Betelgeuse’s dimming may be attributed to a companion star orbiting around it. This companion star, named Ori B, is estimated to have a mass of 1.17 solar masses and could be influencing the modulation of dust in the region surrounding Betelgeuse. If confirmed, this discovery could have significant implications for our understanding of Betelgeuse’s evolutionary path.
Betelgeuse exhibits a Long Secondary Period (LSP) of approximately 2100 days, which adds another layer of complexity to its variability. The mechanisms behind LSP in red giant stars like Betelgeuse remain unknown, but it is believed to be linked to a secondary cycle to a shorter one. This enigmatic behavior adds to the intrigue surrounding this massive star.
The presence of a low-mass companion star like Ori B could have profound implications for Betelgeuse’s future evolution. If the modulation of dust by the companion star is indeed responsible for the dimming episodes, it suggests that Betelgeuse may not be as close to a supernova explosion as previously thought. This realization provides a new perspective on the timeline of Betelgeuse’s stellar lifecycle.
Betelgeuse continues to intrigue and fascinate astronomers with its unexpected dimming episodes and complex variability. The discovery of a possible companion star orbiting this red supergiant opens up new avenues for research and exploration in the field of stellar evolution. As we delve deeper into the mysteries of Betelgeuse, we are sure to uncover more secrets about the fascinating world of stars and galaxies.
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