Betelgeuse, also known as Beetlejuice, has captivated the interest of amateur astronomers for many years due to its unpredictable behavior. Situated in the constellation Orion, this red supergiant variable star has a unique dimming pattern that has puzzled researchers. With a radius approximately 1,000 times that of the Sun and shining 100,000 times brighter at a distance of 642 light years away, Betelgeuse is undeniably one of the most prominent stars in the night sky.
The Great Dimming
In recent years, Betelgeuse garnered special attention for its unexpected dimming which occurred towards the end of 2019 and then returned to normal in the first half of 2020. This event, now referred to as ‘The Great Dimming,’ raised questions about the underlying cause behind such fluctuations in brightness. Researchers speculate that a companion star with a mass of 1.17 solar masses, orbiting at a distance 2.43 times the radius of Betelgeuse, might be responsible for modulating the dust surrounding the system, leading to the observed variations.
One of the intriguing features of Betelgeuse is its Long Secondary Period (LSP) of around 2,100 days, which is significantly longer than its normal pulsation period. This phenomenon, commonly observed in Red Giant Branch stars, remains shrouded in mystery. While the exact mechanism causing the LSP is unknown, scientists hypothesize that it could be related to the pulsation of the star’s outer layers. If this theory holds true, Betelgeuse may be larger than previously estimated, hinting at a potential supernova explosion in the coming centuries.
The Role of Ori B
A recent study proposes that a low mass companion star, Ori B, could be influencing the long-term variability of Betelgeuse. This binary system scenario suggests that Ori B interacts with the dust surrounding Betelgeuse, causing fluctuations in brightness as it transits. While Betelgeuse is anticipated to go supernova in the near future based on its observed variations, the discovery of Ori B as a possible influencer implies that the stellar event may still be some time away.
The potential presence of Ori B as a companion star to Betelgeuse carries significant implications for our understanding of stellar evolution. By modulating the dust surrounding the system, Ori B could be shaping the behavior of Betelgeuse, offering new insights into the star’s lifecycle. If confirmed, this discovery could pave the way for a deeper comprehension of the processes at play within red supergiants like Betelgeuse.
Betelgeuse continues to intrigue and beguile astronomers with its enigmatic behavior and mysterious dimming episodes. As scientific research progresses and new discoveries come to light, the red supergiant’s secrets may gradually unravel, shedding light on the intricate workings of these massive celestial bodies. The quest to uncover the truth behind Betelgeuse’s variability remains ongoing, inviting stargazers and researchers alike to delve deeper into the mysteries of this captivating star.
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