We are eagerly anticipating the upcoming astronomical event involving the star T Coronae Borealis (T CrB). This star, known for its thermonuclear detonations on its surface every 80 years, is set to explode in the coming weeks. Once it erupts, T CrB will be visible to the naked eye for the first time since the 1940s.
For those interested in observing this event, the chart indicates that the best view will be towards the south-south-west from London around 2300 BST. It is recommended to keep an eye on the location marked on the chart. When the eruption occurs, T CrB is expected to shine as brightly as Alphecca, the brightest star in the Corona Borealis constellation.
The Astronomical League suggests taking the time to sketch the constellation now and comparing it to a sketch made when the star erupts. This comparison will help determine the exact day when the light from the eruption reaches Earth. Keep in mind that the explosion has already taken place, with the light travelling through space for approximately 2,600 years before reaching us.
From Sydney, Australia, observers can expect the constellation to be at its highest point, due north, around 2100 AEST. This positioning will provide a prime viewing opportunity for those in the southern hemisphere to witness this celestial event.
As we eagerly await the arrival of the light from T CrB’s explosion, it is a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the intricate timing involved in observing such phenomena. The opportunity to witness a star’s eruption that occurred thousands of years ago serves as a humbling reminder of our place in the cosmos. So mark your calendars, make your sketches, and prepare to witness a celestial spectacle that has been millennia in the making.
