Why it matters: The discovery of “old smoker” stars, which emit puffs of smoke and dust after a long period of inactivity, is a fascinating finding in the field of astronomy. These stars could potentially play a role in the distribution of elements in galaxies, adding to our understanding of the life cycle of stars and planets.
What they are saying: Scientists are still uncertain about what causes the “old smoker” effect in these stars. They initially focused on finding newborn stars surrounded by dust and gases, but stumbled upon these unique, large, and very old stars instead. The discovery raises questions about the stability of discs in forming solar systems and the process of star death.
The big picture: The “old smoker” stars are a type of red giant, which are stars that have expired and run out of hydrogen fuel. These stars emit violent energy outbursts after their “death.” The team of scientists found 21 unusual red giants, seven of which were identified as “old smokers.”
What to watch: Further research is needed to understand the phenomenon of “old smoker” stars and their impact on element distribution in galaxies. Studying these stars could provide insights into the formation of new solar systems and the spread of heavy elements in galaxies.
My take: The discovery of “old smoker” stars adds an intriguing dimension to our understanding of stellar evolution. It demonstrates that there is still much to learn about the complexities of the universe. This finding could have significant implications for our understanding of the formation and distribution of stars and planets within galaxies. Further research in this area will be crucial in unraveling these mysteries.
