Known as the Blaze Star, this system lies approximately 3,000 light-years away in the constellation Corona Borealis and is famed for its dramatic thermonuclear explosions, or novae, which occur roughly every 80 years.
Dr Daniel Brown, an associate professor of astronomy at Nottingham Trent University, explains that T Coronae Borealis is not a single star but a binary system composed of a dense white dwarf and an ageing red giant.
Over the decades, the red giant transfers material to the white dwarf until a thermonuclear explosion ignites, briefly increasing the system’s brightness dramatically.
An artist’s impression of the T Coronae Borealis star system (Image: Nasa Goddard Space Flight Center/PA Wire) Astronomers anticipate this celestial dance could culminate in a nova any time between now and September 2025.
During the event, T Coronae Borealis will surge in brightness from magnitude 11, faintly visible with binoculars in dark skies, to magnitude 2, rivalling some of the brightest stars in the night sky.
The nova’s peak will last for several days, making it easily visible to the naked eye, even in light-polluted areas, before it gradually fades over the following weeks.
For those eager to witness this rare phenomenon, the constellation Corona Borealis is well-positioned for observation from the North East.
Currently, the constellation rises just after sunset and reaches its highest point—65 degrees above the southern horizon—at around 3am.
As spring progresses, the best viewing times will occur earlier in the evening.
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To locate Corona Borealis, start with the Plough (Big Dipper) and follow the curve of its handle down to Arcturus, the brightest star in the neighbouring constellation Bootes.
To the left of Arcturus, look for the distinctive U-shaped arc of Corona Borealis.
Dr Brown recommends familiarising yourself with the constellation using binoculars to identify its stars before the nova begins.
“As the outbreak starts, you can compare its brightness against other stars to track its progress without needing advanced equipment,” he said.
Make sure to mark your calendars and prepare your binoculars—this event is not expected to occur again until the 22nd century.