A groundbreaking research paper in Nature Astronomy unveils a stunning celestial phenomenon—a star system that experiences titanic waves akin to ocean surf. Dubbed a “heartbreak star,” the system, officially designated MACHO 80.7443.1718, has astonished astronomers with its unparalleled brightness fluctuations—varying by an astounding 20%. Heartbeat stars, pairs of closely orbiting stars that periodically pulsate in luminosity, have long fascinated scientists, but this system takes the phenomenon to an entirely new level.
Led by Morgan MacLeod, a Postdoctoral Fellow in Theoretical Astrophysics at the Center for Astrophysics, Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA), the study reveals that the extreme brightness changes are caused by colossal waves breaking on the surface of the larger star. These waves are triggered by the gravitational interaction with its smaller companion star during their close passages. The resulting tidal waves reach staggering heights and speeds, crashing onto the bigger star’s surface, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle.
The “heartbreak” star system offers a unique opportunity to explore the effects of massive tidal forces on stellar evolution. “Each crash of the star’s towering tidal waves releases enough energy to disintegrate our entire planet several hundred times over,” notes MacLeod. The system’s tremendous energy release accelerates the star’s rotation and propels stellar gas outward, forming a rotating and glowing atmosphere. This groundbreaking research sheds light on the intricate dynamics of close binary star systems and deepens our understanding of how celestial bodies interact and evolve.
As scientists continue to study MACHO 80.7443.1718 and similar systems, the newfound knowledge may pave the way for a broader understanding of astrophysical processes and how they shape the cosmos. With its cosmic surfing spectacle, this heartbreak star system promises to be a captivating focal point for future research, opening windows into the dynamic world of extreme tidal forces and their influence on the lives of massive stars.
References
- Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. (2023, August 10). Stellar surf’s up: Monster waves as tall as three suns are crashing upon a colossal star. Phys.Org. https://phys.org/news/2023-08-stellar-surf-monster-tall-suns.html
- MacLeod, M., & Loeb, A. (2023). Breaking waves on the surface of the heartbeat star MACHO 80.7443.1718. Nature Astronomy, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41550-023-02036-3
