The Unveiling of a New Comet

Astronomers have recently discovered a dazzling new comet adorning our sky. Named as Comet Leonard, this spectacular interstellar guest is anticipated to be the brightest comet of 2021 and potentially even become visible to the naked eye.

Comets, often referred to as ‘dirty snowballs’, are composed of rock, dust and ices. As they get closer to the sun, their icy cores begin to sublimate, leading to the creation of a glowing coma and spectacular tails - a significant signature of comets.

• The Discovery
• Orbit and Path
• Observing Comet Leonard

Frequently Asked Questions about Comet Leonard

• How was Comet Leonard discovered?
• Where and when can I see Comet Leonard?
• Why is Comet Leonard important?

Mysterious Cosmic Radio Burst

From a distant galaxy, astronomers have traced one of the most enigmatic astronomical phenomena, known as Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs). These are incredibly potent and fleeting signals that have puzzled scientists since their discovery in 2007.

The recent FRB, named FRB 20200120E, occurred in a galaxy estimated to be 7 billion light-years away. The intriguing facet of this FRB is that it’s repeating, shedding new light on the nature of these bizarre celestial phenomena.

• The Source of Fast Radio Bursts
• Probing FRBs

Frequently Asked Questions about Fast Radio Bursts

• What causes Fast Radio Bursts?
• Why are FRBs significant?
• How are FRBs detected?

Cosmic ‘Heartbeat’ Detected

Astronomers have recently spotted a pulsating star exhibiting a so-called ‘cosmic heartbeat’. This star, termed HD 76920b, was observed to have an extraordinary elongated orbit around its companion, causing the pulsations to vary dramatically in intensity.

Through this discovery, astronomers aim to deepen their insights into the universe’s ever-enigmatic stellar objects. They hope to unlock answers about star formation, their life cycle, and their eventual death.

• The Star with a Cosmic Heartbeat
• Stellar Pulsations: What and Why?

Frequently Asked Questions about Stellar Pulsations

• What causes a star to pulsate?
• How does the pulsation of a star affect its surroundings?
• Why is the discovery of a pulsating star significant?

New astronomical study is a science in constant evolution. You might wonder - What else is out there? - and that’s what astronomers worldwide are working hard to determine. As we continue enhancing our technology and employing larger and more powerful telescopes, we’re broadening our view, unveiling an ever-increasing number of cosmic wonders. Stay tuned to the stars, the best is yet to come!

Article updated at Tuesday, October 8, 2024