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Star Betelgeuse - A red supergiant in the constellation Orion

One fascinating star is Betelgeuse, a red supergiant located in the constellation Orion. Here are some intriguing facts about it: 1. Size and Volume: Betelgeuse is immense—if placed at the center of our solar system, it would extend past the orbit of Mars. 2. Variability: It is a pulsating variable star, meaning its brightness changes over time; it has been observed to vary in brightness over several months. 3. Life Cycle: Betelgeuse is nearing the end of its life cycle and is expected to explode as a supernova within the next million years, a relatively short time in astrophysical terms. 4. Distance: It is located approximately 640 light-years away from Earth. 5. Cultural Significance: Betelgeuse has been significant in many cultures and is commonly referred to as the “Shoulder of the Hunter” in the constellation Orion. 6. Color Indicator: Its reddish hue signifies a cooler surface temperature compared to other stars, which gives it a distinctive appearance. Betelgeuse con...

Underwater snow gives clues about Europa's icy shell

Europa's ice shell could be purer than previously thought. Research shows that a kind of underwater snow -- which on Earth freezes purer than other ice -- is likely to be common inside Jupiter's moon. The findings will help mission scientists working on NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft, which will use an ice penetrating radar to look beneath the ice shell to see whether Europa's global ocean could be hospitable to life.

from Space & Time News -- ScienceDaily https://ift.tt/RQaM1rI

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