Betelgeuse, a Fading Star

A Variable Star with Unusual Name

Betelgeuse, one of the brightest and most recognizable stars in the night sky, has been the subject of much fascination and speculation over the years. Its unusual name has even inspired the title of a popular 1988 film.

Oscillating Brightness

Betelgeuse is a variable star, meaning its brightness fluctuates over time. For more than a century, astronomers have observed regular oscillations in the star's brightness, ranging from brighter to dimmer periods.

Red Supergiant Star

As a red supergiant star, Betelgeuse is nearing the end of its stellar lifespan. These massive stars have distinctive orange-red hues and are known for their unstable behavior.

Orion's Shoulder

Located in the constellation Orion, Betelgeuse marks the eastern shoulder of the hunter figure. With an apparent magnitude of approximately 0.6, it is the second-brightest star in the constellation.