Post by glactus on Feb 28, 2009 10:47:52 GMT
V 838 Monocerotis
V838 Monocerotis is a variable star in the constellation of Monoceros, and situated on the edge of our galaxy. Variable magnitude is15.74
The star experienced a major outburst that was observed in early 2002. Originally believed to be a typical nova eruption, it was then realized to be something completely different.
The reason for the outburst is still uncertain, but several theories have been put forward, including an eruption related to stellar death processes and a merger of a binary star or planets.
Expanding light echoes continue to illuminate the dusty environs of V838 Monocerotis. This stunning image, produced from Hubble data recorded in October of 2004, adds to a unique series of space-based, high-resolution views.
After detecting the sudden outburst, astronomers have followed the flash expanding at the speed of light through pre-existing dust clouds surrounding this reddened variable star.
While the expanding light echoes are dramatic, astronomers have struggled to understand where V838 Monocerotis itself fits into the stellar life cycle. Studies indicate that it is a young binary system with a massive star responsible for the outburst. The Hubble image spans about 14 light-years at the estimated 20,000 light-year distance to V838 Monocerotis.
Credits: This is a NASA/Hubble/ESA image