Astronomers Identify a Rare and Superbright Nova in Our Galaxy
Scientists discovered that one specific star explosion was much brighter than others by studying how its light faded over time.
The Drop
Why It Matters
The Catch
Put That in Perspective
Scientists have previously identified only two other stars, V1500 Cyg and V1674 Her, as being this bright. By comparing V838 Her to these famous examples, researchers are slowly building a clearer picture of how rarely these powerful explosions occur in our galaxy.
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