Giant star caught swallowing three planets: Newscientist.com

In summary, a giant star is a larger, brighter, and hotter type of star with a shorter lifespan than smaller stars. Scientists discovered a giant star swallowing three planets using data from NASA's Kepler space telescope. This is due to the star's instability and expansion as it reaches the end of its life cycle. Other instances of giant stars swallowing planets have also been observed, providing insight into the evolution and fate of both stars and planets. This discovery also adds to our understanding of the diversity of planetary systems in the universe.
  • #1
Ivan Seeking
Staff Emeritus
Science Advisor
Gold Member
8,142
1,755
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
.
A giant star has been caught in the act of swallowing three planets, one after the other, with each "meal" accompanied by a massive eruption.

I hope it at least excused itself
 

1. What is a giant star?

A giant star is a type of star that is significantly larger and brighter than a typical star, often with a diameter several times that of the sun. These stars are also much hotter and have shorter lifespans than smaller stars.

2. How did scientists discover the giant star swallowing three planets?

The discovery was made using data from NASA's Kepler space telescope. Scientists were able to observe the star dimming as it passed in front of the telescope, indicating that it had swallowed three planets.

3. Why does the giant star swallow planets?

As a giant star reaches the end of its life cycle, it expands and becomes unstable. This can cause it to engulf nearby planets as it grows in size, ultimately leading to its eventual collapse.

4. Are there other giant stars known to have swallowed planets?

Yes, there have been several other instances of giant stars swallowing planets that have been observed by scientists. This phenomenon is not uncommon in the later stages of a star's life.

5. What can we learn from this discovery?

Studying the interactions between giant stars and planets can provide insight into the evolution and fate of both stars and planets. This discovery also adds to our understanding of the diversity of planetary systems in the universe.

Similar threads

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
3
Views
978
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
22
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
16
Views
2K
Replies
10
Views
3K
Replies
31
Views
5K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
32
Views
5K
Back
Top