Preparing for the Spectacular: Anticipating the Thermonuclear Detonation of T Coronae Borealis

T Coronae Borealis (T CrB), a distant star located 2,600 light years away from Earth, is currently anticipated to undergo a thermonuclear detonation on its surface. This explosion, which happens roughly every 80 years, will make the star visible to the human eye without the need for any aids, a sight not seen since the 1940s.

For those in London looking south-south-west around 2300 BST, the chart provided illustrates the specific location to monitor for any changes. When T CrB erupts, it is projected to shine as brightly as Alphecca, the brightest star in the Corona Borealis constellation, also known as the northern crown.

The Astronomical League encourages individuals to sketch the constellation now and again when the star eventually erupts. This practice will aid in pinpointing the exact time when the eruption’s light reaches Earth. Although the explosion has technically already occurred, it is just a matter of weeks or even days before we witness it here on Earth.

For those observing from Sydney, Australia, the constellation will reach its highest point due north around 2100 AEST. This positioning will provide an optimal view of the celestial event and allow for a unique perspective on this rare occurrence.