WOH G64 Star
The Unveiling of WOH G64 Star
Discovered in the 1970s by Bengt Westerlund, Nils Olander, and B. Hedin, WOH G64 earned its name from the initials of its distinguished discoverers. This celestial giant is part of a catalog of supergiant and giant stars in the LMC. Characterized as possibly the largest star known, WOH G64 boasts a radius of 1,788 times that of the Sun and a luminosity around 282,000 times the solar luminosity.
Stellar Profile
- Star Type: Red supergiant (M5 I)
- Size and Distance: Initial mass of 25 times that of the Sun, radius between 1,540 and 2,575 times the Sun's radius, situated 160,000 light years away.
- Variable Nature: Exhibits variability, with visual brightness fluctuating over an 800-day period, possibly a carbon-rich Mira variable.
WOH G64 Star Size
The colossal proportions of WOH G64, an OH/IR red supergiant, render it one of the largest stars ever discovered. With a radius estimated between 1,540 and 2,575 times that of the Sun, it challenges the boundaries of stellar dimensions.
WOH G64 Star Mass
The birthright of WOH G64 involves an initial mass of approximately 25 times that of the Sun, setting the stage for a stellar journey destined to culminate in a spectacular supernova event.
WOH G64 Star Diameter
The expansive reach of WOH G64 extends its influence across the cosmic tapestry, with a diameter ranging from 7.16 to 11.97 astronomical units. This colossal expanse leaves astronomers eager to unravel the precise dimensions of this celestial giant.
WOH G64 Star Radius
The radiant enormity of WOH G64 unfolds with a radius estimated between 1,540 and 2,575 solar radii. The vast expanse of this red supergiant challenges our perceptions of stellar size, prompting astronomers to delve deeper into the intricacies of its structure.
WOH G64 Star Luminosity
Radiating with a luminosity ranging from 280,000 to 490,000 times that of the Sun, WOH G64 illuminates the cosmic landscape with its intense brilliance, contributing to the ongoing exploration of extreme stellar phenomena.
WOH G64 Star Distance to Earth
Residing at a staggering distance of 160,000 light years in the constellation Dorado, WOH G64 extends its influence far beyond the realms of our Milky Way. Positioned within the Large Magellanic Cloud, this red supergiant remains a celestial marvel that challenges our observational capabilities.
Phoenix A Black Hole*
The Marvel of Phoenix A Black Hole
At the heart of Phoenix A lies a supermassive black hole, an entity born from the remnants of massive stars. This black hole, with a mass millions to billions of times that of our sun, exerts an immense gravitational force, tugging at nearby matter and bending the fabric of spacetime itself.
What Is Phoenix A Black Hole?
Phoenix A black hole, located at the center of the Phoenix A galaxy, is the largest known black hole, weighing 100 Billion Solar Masses. It is a non-rotating black hole, contributing to the unusually high rate of star formation in the Phoenix A galaxy.
How Big Is Phoenix A* Black Hole?
Phoenix A black hole's estimated diameter of the event horizon is a staggering 590 billion kilometers, making it 40 times bigger than the Ton-618 black hole.
Phoenix A Black Hole Size Comparison
The size of the Phoenix A black hole is compared with various astronomical objects, highlighting its colossal scale.
What Does Phoenix A Black Hole Look Like?
Although not physically observed, artistic illustrations depict the Phoenix A black hole's awe-inspiring presence.
When Was Phoenix A Black Hole Discovered?
Detected in 2010 as part of the South Pole Telescope collaboration, Phoenix A black hole remains a cosmic marvel, possibly formed from the collision of multiple supermassive black holes.
Why Is Phoenix A Black Hole So Big?
Scientists speculate that the size of Phoenix A black hole may be attributed to the collision of multiple supermassive black holes or its primordial nature, forming shortly after the Big Bang.
Where Is Phoenix A Black Hole?
Positioned in the center of the Phoenix Cluster, within the Phoenix Constellation, Phoenix A black hole remains an enigma in the vast cosmic landscape.
Phoenix A Black Hole Type
Phoenix A hosts the largest black hole ever discovered, belonging to the category of supermassive black holes. This colossal cosmic entity defies conventional expectations with its extraordinary mass and size.
Phoenix A Black Hole Age
Initially detected in 2010, the Phoenix A Black Hole is believed to be one of the oldest black holes in the universe, likely forming shortly after the Big Bang.
Phoenix A Black Hole Size
With an estimated mass of 100 billion solar masses, the enormity of the Phoenix A Black Hole surpasses the mass of some entire galaxies, challenging our understanding of cosmic structures.
Phoenix A Black Hole Diameter
The event horizon of the Phoenix A Black Hole is a staggering 590.5 billion kilometers (366 billion miles) in diameter, about 100 times the distance between the sun and Pluto.
Phoenix A Black Hole Mass
Weighing in at a mind-boggling 100 billion times the mass of our sun, the Phoenix A Black Hole stands as a true behemoth in the cosmic landscape.
Phoenix A Black Hole Distance from Earth
Situated in the Phoenix Cluster, the Phoenix A Black Hole is 8.5 billion light years away from Earth, placing it in one of the most intensely studied galaxy clusters in our universe.
Stephenson 2-18 Star
Red Supergiants: Stellar Titans of the Cosmos
At the heart of our exploration lies the remarkable category of red supergiant stars, a classification that Stephenson 2-18 proudly embodies. These stellar titans are known for their immense size, luminosity, and captivating reddish hues.
Observation History
Stephenson 2-18, part of the open cluster Stephenson 2, was discovered by Charles Bruce Stephenson in 1990. It is potentially among the largest known stars and one of the most luminous stars in the Milky Way.
Distance
Originally estimated to be around 30 kiloparsecs in 1990, later studies dispute this, providing kinematic distances ranging from 5.5 to 6 kiloparsecs, casting uncertainty on Stephenson 2-18's membership in the cluster.
Physical Properties
Stephenson 2-18 is classified as a red supergiant, with potential indications of being an extreme red hypergiant. Its luminosity, temperature, and size contribute to its significance in the cosmic realm.
Evolutionary Stage
While typically classified as a red supergiant, enigmatic properties suggest Stephenson 2-18 might be on the brink of evolving into a luminous blue variable or Wolf–Rayet star.
Luminosity
With a bolometric luminosity of 630,000 L☉, Stephenson 2-18 stands as one of the most luminous red supergiants, offering valuable insights into stellar phenomena.
Stephenson 2-18 Type
Stephenson 2-18 belongs to the class of red supergiant stars, a classification that signifies its evolved state and massive size. These stellar giants are in the late stages of their lifecycle, having exhausted much of their nuclear fuel.
Stephenson 2-18 Age
Estimating the age of Stephenson 2-18 is a complex endeavor that involves studying its evolutionary history. It is believed to be several million years old, marking a phase in which massive stars progress through various stages of their lifecycle.
Stephenson 2-18 Size
The size of Stephenson 2-18 is awe-inspiring. Red supergiants are known for their immense dimensions, and Stephenson 2-18 is no exception. Its substantial size is a result of the expansion that occurs during the later stages of massive star evolution.
Stephenson 2-18 Diameter
The diameter of Stephenson 2-18 is strikingly large, reflecting the expansive nature of red supergiant stars. This dimension signifies the extent of the star's outer layers, which have expanded as a result of complex stellar processes.
Stephenson 2-18 Mass
Stephenson 2-18 possesses a substantial mass, reflecting its classification as a massive
star. While precise mass measurements can be challenging due to the star's distance, it is estimated to be many times the mass of our sun. The immense mass of Stephenson 2-18 contributes to its gravitational influence and the interactions within its core.
Stephenson 2-18Â Mass Loss
With a high mass loss rate of 1.35×10−5 M☉ per year, Stephenson 2-18's maser emissions and infrared excess contribute to our understanding of stellar evolution.
Stephenson 2-18 Temperature
Red supergiants like Stephenson 2-18 are characterized by lower surface temperatures compared to other types of stars. This lower temperature contributes to their reddish appearance and unique spectral signatures. The temperature of Stephenson 2-18 reflects its evolved state and the dynamics of its outer layers.
Stephenson 2-18 Color
Stephenson 2-18 exhibits a distinct reddish color, a hallmark of red supergiant stars. This coloration is a consequence of its lower surface temperature and the types of light it emits. The star's color not only contributes to its visual appeal but also provides insights into its temperature and composition.
Stephenson 2-18 Distance from Earth
Stephenson 2-18 is located at a significant distance from Earth, making its observation a challenging endeavor. While precise distance measurements may vary, it is estimated to be thousands of light-years away. The star's distance underscores the vastness of the universe and the cosmic scales on which celestial objects exist.
Celestial Giants: A Comparative Overview
Size and Mass
- WOH G64: With a radius ranging between 1,540 and 2,575 times that of the Sun, WOH G64 is a colossal red supergiant with an estimated initial mass of 25 times that of our sun.
- Phoenix A: Hosting the largest black hole ever discovered, Phoenix A challenges our cosmic understanding with a mass of 100 billion solar masses.
- Stephenson 2-18: A red supergiant with immense dimensions, Stephenson 2-18 boasts a substantial mass, contributing to its status as a stellar titan.
Temperature and Color
- WOH G64: With a temperature ranging from 3,008 to 3,400 K, WOH G64 exhibits a reddish color characteristic of red supergiants.
- Phoenix A: The temperature of the Phoenix A Black Hole is not provided, and black holes do not emit temperature in the traditional sense. Its color is a representation of its immense gravitational pull.
- Stephenson 2-18: Characterized by lower surface temperatures, Stephenson 2-18 showcases a distinct reddish color, aligning with the typical traits of red supergiants.
Distance from Earth
- WOH G64: Residing 160,000 light years away in the constellation Dorado within the Large Magellanic Cloud, WOH G64 is a distant celestial marvel.
- Phoenix A: Positioned 8.5 billion light years away in the Phoenix Cluster, the Phoenix A Black Hole beckons astronomers to explore the mysteries of the early universe.
- Stephenson 2-18: Located thousands of light-years away in the Scutum constellation, Stephenson 2-18 presents a challenging observation target.
Star Formation and Evolution
WOH G64:
- Star Formation: Part of the Phoenix Cluster, WOH G64 experiences a starburst phase with a star formation rate over 700 times higher than the Milky Way.
- Evolutionary Stage: OH/IR red supergiant.
Phoenix A:
- Galactic Environment: Phoenix A is a galaxy undergoing a starburst phase, with star formation rates over 700 times higher than the Milky Way.
- Black Hole Formation: Believed to be a primordial black hole, possibly formed from the collision of multiple supermassive black holes shortly after the Big Bang.
Stephenson 2-18:
- Evolutionary Stage: Red supergiant, marking a phase in which massive stars progress through various stages of their lifecycle.
- Contribution to Universe: As a red supergiant, Stephenson 2-18 contributes to the diversity of the stellar population and plays a vital role in the cosmos.
Observation: WOH G64 and Phoenix A, residing in environments with exceptionally high star formation rates, provide insights into the dynamic processes shaping galaxies. Stephenson 2-18, as a red supergiant, adds to the understanding of stellar evolution.
Astrophysical Significance
WOH G64:
- Contributions: WOH G64 contributes to our understanding of extreme stellar phenomena, offering a unique opportunity for study.
Phoenix A:
- Black Hole Dynamics: Phoenix A's supermassive black hole challenges our understanding of cosmic evolution, particularly the formation and growth of black holes.
Stephenson 2-18:
- Cosmic Role: Stephenson 2-18, as a red supergiant, contributes to our understanding of the dynamics, composition, and evolution of galaxies beyond the Milky Way.
Observation: Each celestial entity brings a unique astrophysical significance, contributing to different aspects of our comprehension of the cosmos.
Future Prospects
WOH G64:
- Variable Nature: WOH G64 exhibits variability, making it a captivating target for continued observation. Further studies can unveil more about its pulsation patterns and the underlying mechanisms causing variability.
Phoenix A:
- Active Galaxy: Phoenix A, with its supermassive black hole actively absorbing material, offers ongoing opportunities to study the dynamics of black hole accretion. Continued monitoring can reveal insights into the growth and behavior of supermassive black holes.
Stephenson 2-18:
- Evolutionary Dynamics: Stephenson 2-18's evolution as a red supergiant provides a window into the later stages of massive star life cycles. Future observations can contribute to our understanding of how these giants influence their galactic environments.
Observation: The dynamic nature of these celestial entities opens avenues for future research, promising a deeper understanding of their behaviors and contributions to broader astrophysical concepts.
Scientific Collaboration
WOH G64:
- Catalog Contribution: Part of a catalog of supergiant and giant stars in the LMC, WOH G64's observations contribute to our understanding of the stellar population in the Large Magellanic Cloud.
Phoenix A:
- Galactic Cluster Studies: Phoenix A's location in the Phoenix Cluster, one of the most intensely studied galaxy clusters, provides a platform for collaborative research on galaxy clusters, starburst galaxies, and supermassive black holes.
Stephenson 2-18:
- Cosmic Evolution Studies: As a red supergiant, Stephenson 2-18 contributes to studies on the evolution of massive stars, enhancing our understanding of the broader cosmic evolutionary processes.
Observation: Collaboration among astronomers and research institutions can leverage the unique features of each celestial entity, fostering a collective effort to unlock the mysteries of the universe.
Public Engagement
WOH G64:
- Visual Appeal: WOH G64's size and variability make it a visually appealing target for public engagement, allowing enthusiasts to connect with the wonders of the cosmos.
Phoenix A:
- Black Hole Mysteries: Phoenix A's supermassive black hole presents an opportunity to engage the public in discussions about the nature of black holes and their role in shaping galaxies.
Stephenson 2-18:
- Stellar Beauty: Stephenson 2-18's radiant red appearance makes it an aesthetically pleasing subject for public outreach, fostering interest in the beauty of the night sky.
Observation: Public engagement initiatives can use the distinct characteristics of these celestial entities to captivate audiences and inspire a fascination with astronomy.
WOH G64 vs Phoenix A vs Stephenson 2-18 Table
Here's a detailed table summarizing the information about WOH G64 Star, Phoenix A* Black Hole, and Stephenson 2-18 Star:
| Property | WOH G64 Star | Phoenix A Black Hole* | Stephenson 2-18 Star |
|---|---|---|---|
| Observation Data | Epoch: J2000.0 | Location: Center of Phoenix Cluster in Phoenix Constellation | Epoch: J2000, Constellation: Scutum |
| Equinox: J2000.0 | RA: 18h 39m 02.3709s, Dec: -06° 05' 10.5357" | ||
| Constellation: Dorado (LMC) | |||
| Right Ascension: 04h 55m 10.5252s | |||
| Declination: -68° 20' 29.998" | |||
| Characteristics | Evolutionary Stage: OH/IR red supergiant | Size: 100 Billion Solar Masses | Evolutionary Stage: Red supergiant, possible extreme red hypergiant |
| Spectral Type: M5 I – M7.5e | Schwarzschild Diameter: 3,900 astronomical units | Spectral Type: ~M6 | |
| Variable Type: Carbon-rich LPV (Mira?) | Star Formation Rate in Phoenix A galaxy: 740 per year | Apparent Magnitude (G): 15.2631±0.0092 | |
| Luminosity: 282,000 - 589,000+57,000 L☉ | Star Formation Rate in Milky Way: 1 per year | Apparent Magnitude (J): 7.150 | |
| Radius: 1,788 R☉ (uncertain) | Event Horizon Diameter: 590 billion kilometers | Apparent Magnitude (H): 4.698 | |
| Temperature: 3,008 – 3,400 K | Travel Time Across Event Horizon at Light Speed: 71 days and 14 hours | Apparent Magnitude (K): 2.9 | |
| Age: ≤5 Myr | Comparison with Ton 618: Phoenix A is 40 times bigger | ||
| Astrometry | Radial Velocity (Rv): 294±2 km/s | Location: Center of Phoenix Cluster in Phoenix Constellation | Radial Velocity (Rv): 89 km/s |
| Proper Motion (μ): RA: 1.108 mas/yr, Dec: −1.348 mas/yr | Proper Motion (μ): RA: −3.045±0.511 mas/yr, Dec: −5.950±0.480 mas/yr | ||
| Parallax (π): −0.2280 ± 0.0625 mas | Distance to Earth: 160,000 ly (50,000 pc) | Parallax (π): −0.0081 ± 0.3120 mas | |
| Distance: 18,900 ly (disputed), 5,800 pc | |||
| Absolute Magnitude (MV): Not provided | |||
| Details | Absolute Magnitude (MV): -6.00 | Size Comparison with Ton 618: Phoenix A is 40 times bigger | Radius: 2,150 R☉ (uncertain) |
| Surface Gravity (log g): +0.0 to −0.5 cgs | Event Horizon Diameter Comparison: Phoenix A is 100 times the distance between Sun and Pluto | Luminosity (Bolometric): 630,000 L☉ | |
| Other Designations: WOH G64, IRAS 04553-6825, LI-LMC 181, ... | Discovery: Detected in 2010 with the South Pole Telescope collaboration | Mass Loss Rate: 1.35×10−5 M☉ per year | |
| Mass: Not provided | |||
| Phoenix A Black Hole vs Ton 618 | Phoenix A Black Hole is 40 times bigger than Ton 618 | N/A | N/A |
| Phoenix A Black Hole Size Comparison | Size Comparison with Various Objects: | N/A | N/A |
| Sun: 100 billion times bigger | |||
| Earth: 1.31017 times bigger | |||
| Sagittarius A* black hole of the Milky Way: 24,100 times bigger | |||
| Abell 1201 black hole: 77.3 times bigger | |||
| Ton 618 black hole: 40 times bigger | |||
| Triangulum Galaxy: Twice bigger | |||
| Stephenson 2-18 Star Distance History | Initial Estimate (1990): ~30 kiloparsecs (98,000 light-years) | Kinematic Distance (2007): 5.83+1.91−0.78 kiloparsecs (19,000 light-years) | Kinematic Distance (2013): ~6 kiloparsecs (20,000 light-years) |
| Updated Estimate (2007): 5.83+1.91−0.78 kiloparsecs (19,000 light-years) | Kinematic Distance (2010): 5.5 kiloparsecs (18,000 light-years) | Uncertainty in Distance (2013): Greater than 50% |
Final Thoughts
In the celestial tapestry, WOH G64, Phoenix A, and Stephenson 2-18 emerge as distinct celestial marvels, each contributing a unique chapter to the cosmic narrative. WOH G64, a colossal red supergiant, beckons with its vast dimensions. Phoenix A, hosting the largest black hole, challenges our understanding of cosmic structures. Stephenson 2-18, a radiant red supergiant, captivates with its immense size.
As astronomers continue to unravel the mysteries of these cosmic giants, their study promises not only to expand our knowledge of the universe but also to inspire awe and wonder at the vastness and diversity inherent in the cosmos. Each of these celestial entities stands as a testament to the grandeur and complexity of the universe we call home.