Scientists have recently made a groundbreaking discovery regarding the formation of a magnetic star as a result of the collision and merger of two stars in the HD 148937 space system, located 3,800 light years away in the constellation norm. This finding was published in a study in Science.
For several years, astronomers have been observing a pair of stars in the NGC 6164/6165 gas-flung cloud at the center, using data from the Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLT) and archival data from the La Silla Observatory. Through their research, scientists noticed that one of the stars appeared significantly younger than the other, leading them to speculate about a potential merger event.
The significant age difference between the two stars, with one appearing 1.5 million years younger, suggests that a merger took place. Researchers believe that this merging event may have “rejuvenated” the larger star, leading to the creation of a nebula that is approximately 7,500 years old and contains elevated levels of nitrogen, carbon, and oxygen.
The scientists also discovered that the system initially consisted of three stars, with two of them eventually merging to form the magnetic star and releasing material that produced the nebula. The third star now orbits the newly formed magnetic star in a double star system.
This finding sheds light on the long-standing question in astronomy about how large stars acquire magnetic fields. The research suggests that magnetism in massive stars is short-lived, and the scientists were able to observe this rare phenomenon shortly after its formation. Understanding these mechanisms not only illuminates the evolution of stars but also helps in deciphering the cosmic phenomena in our galaxy.
Overall, this discovery is a significant step forward in our understanding of star formation and evolution, unlocking new insights into the mysteries of the universe.