Starwatch: Waiting 2,600 Years to Witness the Explosion of T Coronae Borealis | Science

The star T Coronae Borealis (T CrB) is currently anticipated to undergo a thermonuclear detonation on its surface, an event that occurs roughly every 80 years. This explosion is expected to make the star visible to the human eye without the need for any aids, a sight not seen since the 1940s.

The chart provided illustrates the perspective from London looking south-south-west around 2300 BST, indicating the specific location to monitor for any changes. When T CrB erupts, it is projected to shine as brightly as Alphecca, the brightest star in the Corona Borealis constellation, also known as the northern crown.

The Astronomical League encourages individuals to sketch the constellation now and again when the star eventually erupts. This practice will aid in pinpointing the exact time when the eruption’s light reaches Earth. Although the explosion has technically already occurred, the star is located an immense 2,600 light years away, meaning the light from the eruption has been travelling through space for centuries. Now, it is just a matter of weeks, or even days, before we witness it here on Earth.

For those observing from Sydney, Australia, the constellation will reach its highest point due north around 2100 AEST. This positioning will provide an optimal view of the celestial event and allow for a unique perspective on this rare occurrence.