As Betelgeuse Dims Dramatically, Astronomers Scratch Their Heads

One of the night sky's brightest stars is now the faintest it's been in a century. Astronomers aren't sure what it means.

By Erika K. Carlson
Dec 27, 2019 10:15 PMDec 27, 2019 10:46 PM
betelgeuse
This artist's impression shows a vast amount of material being flung into space from Betelgeuse. (Credit: ESO/L. Calcada)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

Over the last few weeks, Betelgeuse, the bright reddish star in the constellation Orion, has dimmed to the faintest it's been in a century. Astronomers have been buzzing with excitement about the event, discussing the star over social media and speculating what might be going on. 

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2025 LabX Media Group