What is the Astonishing Tail of Star Mira Discovered by NASA?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the discovery of a comet-like tail associated with the star Mira, as observed by NASA's Galaxy Evolution Explorer. Participants explore the implications of this observation for understanding galactic phenomena, including dust and gas density, as well as dark matter.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express excitement about the discovery and its potential to provide new insights into galactic dust and gas density, as well as dark matter.
  • Others question the terminology used in the news report, specifically the phrase "comet's tail," suggesting it may not be appropriate for a scientific discussion.
  • A participant defends the use of the term, attributing it to the headline of the news report and encouraging a relaxed attitude towards the terminology.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the appropriateness of the terminology used to describe the tail. While some are intrigued by the discovery, others challenge the framing of the observation.

Ivan Seeking
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August 15, 2007: Astronomers using a NASA space telescope, the Galaxy Evolution Explorer, have spotted an amazingly long comet-like tail behind a star streaking through space. The star, named Mira after the Latin word for "wonderful," has been a favorite of astronomers for about 400 years, yet this is the first time the tail has been seen.

...Nothing like this has ever been seen before around a star. [continued]
http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2007/15aug_mira.htm?list213022
Audio
http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2007/images/mira/audio/story.m3u
 
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Been reading /. ? :wink:

It's a pretty interesting observation, so I look forward to seeing whether more comes of it.. for example, will it give new information about galactic dust/gas density and dark matter?
 
I know it's there to get everyone's attention but, "comet's tail"? Come on, this is a non-GD forum...
 
It was the news report headline. Relax.
 

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