Strange Case of the Pulsating Star
Synopsis
Astronomers have measured the distance to RS Puppis at approximately 62,000 light years, the most accurate distance ever recorded for such a star.
Synopsis
Hubble Space Telescope captured the variable star RS Puppis over five weeks in 2010. During this period, RS Puppis exhibited pulsations, changing brightness by nearly a factor of five every 40 days. The star, surrounded by cosmic gas and dust, created a light echo, an optical illusion where light reflects off distant shells of material. Astronomers calculated the distance to RS Puppis at approximately 62,000 light years, marking the most accurate measurement of such a star to date.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- See Hubble's stunning light echo of RS Puppis.
- Find out how pulsating stars help measure cosmic distances.
- Meet the variable star RS Puppis and its unique characteristics.
Did You Know
- RS Puppis varies in brightness by almost a factor of five every 40 days.
- Hubble observed RS Puppis over a period of around 5 weeks in 2010.
- The distance to RS Puppis is calculated to be around 62,000 light years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of variable star is RS Puppis?
RS Puppis is a type of Cepheid variable star.
How much does RS Puppis vary in brightness?
RS Puppis varies in brightness by almost a factor of five every 40 days.
What is the distance to RS Puppis?
Astronomers have measured the distance to RS Puppis to be around 62,000 light years.
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