Astronomers say Betelgeuse, a large red star in Orion, may soon explode as a supernova. It is 640 light-years from Earth and could become very bright, visible even during the day.
Betelgeuse is 15 to 20 times heavier than the Sun and about 700 times larger. Its brightness changed recently—dimming in 2019-2020 and brightening in 2023—suggesting it may be near the end of its life. Scientists believe it is in the final burning phase before a supernova, which could happen in decades or later.
The supernova will shine as bright as a half-moon for three months and stay visible in daylight for up to a year. It will start with a burst of neutrinos, followed by a fast brightening in a week. After peaking, the light will fade over months, leaving a glowing nebula.
Earth is safe, as Betelgeuse is far beyond the danger zone. However, looking at it through a telescope at peak brightness could be harmful.
The explosion will change Orion by removing Betelgeuse’s bright “shoulder.” A smaller star, “Betelbuddy,” orbits Betelgeuse and may be destroyed in the blast.
The exact timing is unknown, but the event will be a rare, spectacular sight.
