Betelgeuse - Death of a Super Star

Overview

Betelgeuse is a first-magnitude red star in the Orion constellation. This massive star -- 1,000 times the size of the Sun -- is aging and facing imminent death. The latest observations show what appears to be a huge bump on one side of the star, and giant plumes of gas spewing out with ferocious force. Scientists predict Betelgeuse will soon meet its end in a huge explosion. They say that viewed from Earth three hours after this explosion, the supernova will appear almost 100 times brighter than a full moon, and be visible even during the day. As it nears the end of its life, this red supergiant star is grabbing the attention of scientists around the world.