Why it matters: The discovery of “old smoker” stars, which emit puffs of smoke and dust after long periods of inactivity, has puzzled scientists. Understanding these stars could provide insights into the life cycles of elements and the formation of new solar systems.
What they are saying: Scientists are uncertain about what causes the “old smoker” effect in these stars. They are not sure if it is due to protostars starting an eruption, recovering from a dip in brightness, or older giant stars throwing off matter. These stars were initially being studied to find newborn stars, which often contribute to the formation of new solar systems.
The big picture: The “old smoker” stars are a type of red giant, which are essentially stars that have expired and run out of hydrogen fuel. These stars go through violent energy outbursts before their eventual death. Understanding their behavior could provide insights into the fate of our own sun, which will also become a red giant in the future.
What to watch: Further studies and observations of these “old smoker” stars could help unravel the mystery of their unique behavior. Scientists will continue to investigate the role of these stars in the distribution of elements and the formation of planets and solar systems.
My take: The discovery of “old smoker” stars highlights the vastness and complexity of the universe. It is fascinating to uncover new types of stars and their behaviors, which can provide valuable insights into the broader processes at play in galaxies. Further research in this area could deepen our understanding of stellar evolution and the origins of life in the universe.
