Once-in-a-lifetime star explosion could be visible in DAYS – it happens only once every 80 years

THE explosion of a distant star light years away could be visible to Earthbound stargazers this week.

The star system, tucked away in the constellation Corona Borealis, explodes once every 80 years or so.

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Astronomers can only offer dates with a precision or a week or two[/caption]

The last time the star exploded was in 1946, then in 1866 and 1787 respectively.

Now scientists at the American Astronomical Society believe it could erupt again on 27 March.

It could glow as bright as Polaris, the North Star.

The star, dubbed T Crb, is a rare cosmic beast known as a recurrent nova.

This is a star system that has repeated nova-like outbursts.

Astronomers detected fluctuations in the star’s light in March 2023, which mimicked those recorded before the 1946 blast.

According to the paper, if the star doesn’t burst this week, then it could happen on 10 November, June 2026, or February 2027.

“Since the last three eruptions eruptions were not exactly periodic… one can presently not predict exactly the date of the next eruption,” astronomers wrote.

Instead, astronomers can only offer dates with a precision or a week or two.

How to view the Corona Borealis explosion

You’ll want to look to the Corona Borealis constellation, which can be found in the eastern sky.

The collection of stars look like a small semicircle in the sky, near the constellations Boötes. 

Boötes can be found by locating the Plough – or Big Dipper – star pattern in the sky.

Simply follow the ‘handle’ of the Plough / Big Dipper to the bright star Arcturus. 

To the left of and below Boötes, you’ll see Corona Borealis.

Here is when the star explosion is due to take place.

With astronomers struggling to find an exact date for the star explosion, it’s even less likely they’ll offer an exact time.

However, it’s advised hopeful stargazers head outside about three hours after sunset.

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