In an article from Science News dated December 21, 1974, astronomers were able to use high-speed photography and data processing to study a distant star without being negatively affected by its twinkling. They focused their research on Betelgeuse, a red giant star in the sky, and discovered large-scale hot and cold regions that may be convection currents in the star’s atmosphere. This research marked a significant step in understanding the surface features of distant stars.
Since then, powerful ground- and space-based telescopes have allowed scientists to observe the surfaces of giant stars in even greater detail. Observations of stars such as Betelgeuse and R Doradus have confirmed that surface spots are related to convection, which involves bubbles of hot and cold gas rising and sinking in a star’s atmosphere. In addition, scientists have reported the first close-up image of a star outside of our galaxy, captured using the Very Large Telescope in Chile. This discovery, involving a star in the Large Magellanic Cloud, suggests that the star, named WOH G64, may be dying.
Lisa Grossman, an astronomy writer with a degree in astronomy from Cornell University and a graduate certificate in science writing from the University of California, Santa Cruz, is responsible for reporting on these astronomical discoveries. Grossman lives near Boston and contributes valuable insights and information about various celestial phenomena and discoveries to the science community.
As the Science News Team reflects on the past year and expresses gratitude for its readers, they emphasize the importance of support from individuals who are interested in science, technology, and medicine. With nearly 6,000 high schools being served by Science News, the team aims to bring science to life for millions of readers and ignite curiosity and inspiration for future generations. Donations from readers are crucial in helping Science News continue its mission of educating and engaging the public with important scientific discoveries.
In the spirit of the holiday season, the Science News Team extends warm wishes for a joyful and inspiring time. They express their gratitude for the support from readers and donors, highlighting the collective effort to spark curiosity and foster discovery that will benefit society for years to come. By working together, the team believes that they can make a significant impact in the field of science communication and education, ultimately shaping a brighter future for scientific research and understanding.
