Astronomers are keeping a close eye on T Coronae Borealis (T CrB), a binary star system 3,000 light-years away, as it nears its anticipated nova explosion. The system has explosive outbursts every about 79 years, and another is overdue by a long shot, with anticipation building since early 2024.
Jean Schneider of the Paris Observatory made a critical prediction in the Research Notes of the American Astronomical Society in October 2024. Based on historical eruption data and the system’s orbital ephemeris, he listed possible explosion dates—March 27 and November 10. Schneider, however, admitted that no one can predict the precise time when the nova will erupt.
Possible Future Explosions
If the explosion fails to happen on March 27, Schneider in his research suggested two other potential dates—November 10, 2025, and June 25, 2026. The initial date in his research was August 12, 2024, but the phenomenon failed to occur on this day.
T CrB is a Binary System
T CrB is made up of a white dwarf and a red giant star that is older. The 1.12 solar mass red giant revolves around the white dwarf. The latter has a high gravitational pull that strips away hydrogen from the red giant. The material gathered on the white dwarf increases the pressure, and at some point, it sets off a thermonuclear explosion. The event has been noted over 800 years ago in its first reported observation by human eyes.
When T CrB explodes as a nova, it will be seen in the night sky. Those in the Northern Hemisphere can see the event by going outside late on Thursday at around 10 PM local time.
