Scientists Explain the Secret of One of the Brightest Stars, Betelgeuse.

Scientists suggest that the reason for the irregular changes in brightness of the star Betelgeuse may be a hidden companion star. In a new study, set to be published in The Astrophysical Journal, the authors propose a model in which the companion star orbits Betelgeuse, deflecting dust that periodically blocks light. Scientists have ruled out all other possible causes of brightness changes, leaving only the theory of a hidden companion star.

The hypothesis of the existence of a companion star helps explain the different periods of increasing and decreasing brightness of Betelgeuse. There are two separate periods: one lasts a little over a year, the other about 6 years. Betelgeuse is a variable star, so its pulsations are associated with internal processes such as rhythmic expansion and contraction. These processes indicate the possible timing of the star's explosion as a supernova.

The authors of the study suggest that if the star has long-term pulsations, it may explode sooner. If the pulsations are short-term, this could be a sign of the presence of a companion star. This star, similar to the Sun but twice as large, is hidden in the light of the giant. Further observations are needed to confirm this hypothesis.

Additionally, astronomers at the astronomical center have discovered that from late September to November, an asteroid will approach Earth and temporarily become a satellite of our planet.