New observations suggest companion star distorts Betelgeuse into egg shape

New astronomical observations indicate that the red supergiant star Betelgeuse is being distorted into an egg-like shape by a close-orbiting companion star, Universe Today reported. The interaction between the two stars could help explain variations in the brightness of Betelgeuse, which forms the shoulder of the constellation Orion. [1]

According to Universe Today, Betelgeuse was long considered a single star until recent observations revealed the presence of the companion. The companion, named Siwarha, is described as a young yellow star that is not quite on the main sequence. Because astronomers cannot observe Siwarha directly, the existence of the star has been a subject of debate. [1]

Binary star systems consist of two stars that are gravitationally bound in orbit around each other, providing scientists with direct measurements of stellar masses and tests for stellar evolution. While some visual binaries can be resolved using telescopes, others are detected through indirect techniques such as spectroscopy or astrometry. [3]

The latest observations track how Siwarha gravitationally disturbs the primary star, providing further evidence of the companion's existence and its physical impact on the red supergiant, Universe Today reported. [1]