What happened to the massive star in Andromeda observed by Kishalay De?

The massive star, M31-2014-DS1, appears to have vanished, fading dramatically and leaving behind a faint, dusty object, possibly indicating a rare direct collapse into a black hole.

Could the vanishing star in Andromeda be a result of a stellar merger?

Yes, researchers suggest that the observations of M31-2014-DS1 could also be explained by the merger of two stars, which would produce similar effects of an outburst followed by dimming.

Why is the James Webb Space Telescope important for studying M31-2014-DS1?

The James Webb Space Telescope's advanced capabilities allowed astronomers to observe the faint object and dust cocoon where the star disappeared, aiding in the investigation of its fate.

Home / Science / Massive Star Vanishes, Black Hole Mystery Unfolds

Massive Star Vanishes, Black Hole Mystery Unfolds

19 Jan

•

Summary

A 20-times solar mass star in Andromeda mysteriously faded.
Astronomers investigate a rare failed supernova or star merger.
James Webb Telescope data reveals a dim object and dust cocoon.

Massive Star Vanishes, Black Hole Mystery Unfolds

A massive star in the nearby Andromeda galaxy has seemingly disappeared, leaving astronomers to ponder a rare celestial event. Initially observed to brighten and then dramatically fade between 2017 and 2020, the star, M31-2014-DS1, is now the subject of intense study. Researchers from Columbia University initially proposed it underwent a failed supernova, directly collapsing into a black hole without a significant explosion.

Further observations utilizing the James Webb Space Telescope and the Chandra X-ray Observatory have revealed a faint, red object cloaked in a dust cocoon at the star's former location. This observation supports the theory of a direct collapse into a black hole. However, an alternative hypothesis suggests the event could be the result of two stars merging, also producing an outburst and subsequent dimming.

While definitive evidence, such as X-ray radiation, is yet to be found, the implications are significant. Regardless of the exact cause, the event represents an unusual stellar fate and offers a unique chance to study the end stages of massive stars with advanced astronomical tools. The scientific community eagerly awaits further analysis to confirm whether a black hole has indeed formed.