VLT Update 6 {23rd of June 2011}: The Flames of Betelgeuse

Using the VISIR instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope (VLT), astronomers have imaged a complex and bright nebula around the supergiant star Betelgeuse in greater detail than ever before. This structure, which resembles flames emanating from the star, is formed as the behemoth sheds its material into space.

Credit: ESA

[seyeruoynepotsuj]

I really love this video! What's the name of the music? WHere can I find it?

[TheUniverseUnfolded]

@OpiatedBliss That's interesting to bring that up as Betelgeuse is a dying star and it's not known whether it has or has not exploded yet. We don't know yet as the light that would be travelling towards us if it has exploded hasn't reached us yet. You could either witness this supernova tomorrow or in a million years - we don't know. The effect of the Betelgeuse supernova is said to be like having a second sun in the sky.

[TheUniverseUnfolded]

@seyeruoynepotsuj To be honest, I'm not sure the name or artist of this song. I came across looking at 'NASA Astronomy Pics of the Day' videos and found it in one of those. I did a lot of editing with this song to make it fit the video so the original will not sound the same, nor last as long. Hope that it of help in some way.

[natashadavidson]

its sped up. it would last for weeks or months in real life.