Space: The Solar System
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Abstract on Because You Can't Eat Just One: Star Will Swallow Two Planets Original source 

Because You Can't Eat Just One: Star Will Swallow Two Planets

Astronomers have discovered that a star, known as BD+48 740, is on the verge of swallowing two planets in its orbit. The star, which is located about 1,600 light-years away from Earth, is a red giant that has already consumed one planet and is now on the brink of devouring two more. This discovery has raised questions about the fate of our own solar system and what could happen to it in the future.

What is BD+48 740?

BD+48 740 is a red giant star that is located in the constellation of Cygnus. It has a mass that is about 1.5 times that of our sun and is approximately 10 billion years old. The star has already consumed one planet and is now on the verge of swallowing two more.

How Did Astronomers Discover This?

Astronomers discovered this phenomenon by using the SOPHIE spectrograph at the Haute-Provence Observatory in France. The spectrograph measures the radial velocity of stars, which can be used to detect planets in orbit around them. By analyzing the data collected by SOPHIE, astronomers were able to determine that BD+48 740 was consuming its planets.

What Happens When a Star Swallows a Planet?

When a star swallows a planet, it can have several effects on the star's behavior. The most noticeable effect is an increase in brightness as the planet's material heats up and begins to glow. This effect can last for several years before fading away.

What Does This Mean for Our Solar System?

This discovery raises questions about what could happen to our own solar system in the future. As our sun ages and becomes a red giant, it will expand and consume Mercury, Venus, and possibly even Earth. While this may seem like a distant future, it is a reminder that everything in the universe is constantly changing and evolving.

Conclusion

The discovery of BD+48 740 consuming two planets in its orbit raises questions about the fate of our own solar system. While it may seem like a distant future, it is a reminder that everything in the universe is constantly changing and evolving. As we continue to explore the cosmos, we will undoubtedly discover more phenomena like this that challenge our understanding of the universe.

FAQs

Q: How far away is BD+48 740 from Earth?

A: BD+48 740 is located about 1,600 light-years away from Earth.

Q: What is a red giant star?

A: A red giant star is a star that has exhausted the hydrogen fuel in its core and has expanded to several times its original size.

Q: Will our sun consume Earth?

A: Yes, as our sun ages and becomes a red giant, it will expand and consume Mercury, Venus, and possibly even Earth.

 


This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.

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star (4), 740 (3), bd+48 (3), two (3)