Westerhout 49-2 Star
Westerhout 49-2, nestled within the H II region Westerhout 49, emerges as a celestial marvel, captivating astronomers with its colossal proportions. In this cosmic dance, W49-2 boasts a mass teetering around 250 solar masses, although uncertainties shroud this astronomical giant. Illuminating the cosmos with a luminosity surpassing 4 million L☉, it stands as one of the most massive and luminous stars ever discovered.
Westerhout 49-2
Westerhout 49-2 Star Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overview | |
| Distance from Earth | 36,200 light years |
| Classification | Evolved Slash Star |
| Spectral Type | O2-3.5If* |
| Radius | 55.29 R☉ |
| Temperature | 35,500 K |
| Luminosity | 4,365,000 L☉ |
| Properties | |
| Mass | 250±120 M☉ |
| Reddening (K Band) | Nearly 5 magnitudes |
| Birth and Uncertainties | |
| Birth Circumstances | Murky, Possible Collision or Nebular Mass Accumulation |
| Mass Estimate | 90 to 240 M☉ (Uncertain) |
| Binary Nature (Potential) | Indicated by Bright X-ray Emissions |
| Heaviest Star Debate | |
| Current Mass (Debated) | 250 M☉ |
| Contenders | UY Scuti, R136a1 |
| Celestial Coordinates | |
| Constellation | Aquila |
| Right Ascension | 19h 10m 21.858s |
| Declination | 09° 05' 02.53" |
| Other Designations | |
| TIC 202340617 | |
| 2MASS J19102185+0905025 |
How Big is Westerhout 49-2 Star
Westerhout 49-2 Star, a celestial marvel within the expansive H II region Westerhout 49, invites us to explore its colossal proportions and unravel the cosmic mysteries that surround this enigmatic stellar giant.
Westerhout 49-2 Star Size
Emerging as one of the universe's most massive entities, Westerhout 49-2 boasts a mass teetering around 250 solar masses, making it one of the most massive and luminous stars ever discovered. Its sheer size and luminosity contribute to the cosmic dance within the H II region, captivating astronomers with its stellar performance.
Westerhout 49-2 Star Mass
The gravitational forces within Westerhout 49-2 play a significant role in shaping its cosmic destiny. With a mass reaching approximately 250 solar masses, this stellar giant stands as a testament to the extremes of stellar mass within the cosmos.
Westerhout 49-2 Star Diameter
Measuring the dimensions of Westerhout 49-2 presents a fascinating challenge. While specific diameter details may elude us, its colossal mass and luminosity suggest a stellar giant that commands attention within the celestial tapestry.
Westerhout 49-2 Star Radius
Westerhout 49-2's radius, estimated to be around 55.29 times that of our Sun, contributes to its prominence within the H II region Westerhout 49. The expansive reach of this stellar giant adds to the intricate beauty of the cosmic dance it performs.
Westerhout 49-2 Star Temperature
Draped in a reddened hue, Westerhout 49-2 exhibits a scorching temperature of about 35,500 K. This high temperature, coupled with its spectral type of O2-3.5If*, places it among the hottest and most luminous stars, casting a radiant glow across the cosmic landscape.
Westerhout 49-2 Star Distance to Earth
Situated a staggering 36,200 light years away from Earth in the constellation Aquila, Westerhout 49-2 challenges our understanding of distance in the cosmic realm. Despite its distant abode, this stellar giant's luminosity surpasses 4 million times that of our Sun, contributing to the celestial symphony within the Aquila constellation.
Westerhout 49-2 Star vs Sun
Comparing Westerhout 49-2 Star and our Sun highlights the vast differences between an extremely massive and luminous star and our relatively modest solar companion. Let's explore the distinctions across various parameters.
Westerhout 49-2 Star
Mass and Luminosity:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star boasts a mass of around 250 solar masses, making it one of the most massive stars ever discovered.
- Its luminosity surpasses 4 million times that of our Sun, casting a radiant glow within the H II region Westerhout 49.
Temperature and Spectral Type:
- The star exhibits a scorching temperature of about 35,500 K.
- Classified as an evolved slash star with a spectral type of O2-3.5If*, it stands among the hottest and most luminous stars.
Distance from Earth:
- Situated approximately 36,200 light years away from Earth, Westerhout 49-2 challenges our cosmic perspective, emphasizing the vast distances within the universe.
The Sun
Mass and Luminosity:
- The Sun has a modest mass of about 1 solar mass, making it an average-sized star.
- Its luminosity is approximately 1 L☉, providing the energy necessary for life on Earth.
Temperature and Spectral Type:
- The Sun's surface temperature is around 5,500 degrees Celsius (9,932 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Classified as a G-type main-sequence star (G2V), the Sun is a relatively cool and stable star.
Distance from Earth:
- The Sun is our nearest star, situated at an average distance of about 93 million miles (150 million kilometers) from Earth.
Points of Comparison
-
Mass and Luminosity:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 250 solar masses, 4 million L☉.
- The Sun: 1 solar mass, 1 L☉.
-
Temperature and Spectral Type:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 35,500 K, O2-3.5If*.
- The Sun: 5,500 degrees Celsius, G2V.
-
Distance from Earth:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 36,200 light years.
- The Sun: Approximately 93 million miles.
In summary, Westerhout 49-2 Star and the Sun represent two ends of the stellar spectrum. Westerhout 49-2 is an extremely massive and luminous star situated at a vast distance, while the Sun, with its modest mass and luminosity, is our closest stellar neighbor, providing the energy essential for life on Earth. Studying these stars helps deepen our understanding of the diverse nature of celestial bodies within the cosmos.
Westerhout 49-2 Star vs UY Scuti
Comparing Westerhout 49-2 Star and UY Scuti reveals two astronomical giants that belong to the rare class of extremely massive and luminous stars. Let's explore the characteristics of each and highlight the distinctions between Westerhout 49-2 and UY Scuti.
Westerhout 49-2 Star
Mass and Luminosity:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star boasts a staggering mass of around 250 solar masses, making it one of the most massive stars ever discovered.
- Its luminosity surpasses 4 million times that of our Sun, casting a radiant glow within the H II region Westerhout 49.
Temperature and Spectral Type:
- The star exhibits a scorching temperature of about 35,500 K.
- Classified as an evolved slash star with a spectral type of O2-3.5If*, it stands among the hottest and most luminous stars.
Distance from Earth:
- Situated approximately 36,200 light years away from Earth, Westerhout 49-2 challenges our cosmic perspective, emphasizing the vast distances within the universe.
UY Scuti
Mass and Luminosity:
- UY Scuti is one of the largest known stars in terms of size but is estimated to have a mass considerably lower than Westerhout 49-2.
- Its luminosity is around 340,000 times that of the Sun, which is impressive but notably lower than Westerhout 49-2.
Temperature and Spectral Type:
- UY Scuti is classified as a red supergiant and exhibits a much lower surface temperature compared to Westerhout 49-2.
- The star's spectral type is M, indicating a cooler temperature compared to the hot O-type classification of Westerhout 49-2.
Distance from Earth:
- UY Scuti is situated approximately 9,500 light years away from Earth, making it closer in comparison to Westerhout 49-2.
Points of Comparison
-
Mass and Luminosity:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 250 solar masses, 4 million L☉.
- UY Scuti: Estimated to be less massive than Westerhout 49-2, with a luminosity of around 340,000 L☉.
-
Temperature and Spectral Type:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 35,500 K, O2-3.5If*.
- UY Scuti: Cooler temperature, classified as a red supergiant with a spectral type of M.
-
Distance from Earth:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 36,200 light years.
- UY Scuti: Approximately 9,500 light years away, making it relatively closer.
In summary, both Westerhout 49-2 Star and UY Scuti are celestial marvels, each contributing to the rich diversity of stellar phenomena. Westerhout 49-2 stands out with its extreme mass and high luminosity, while UY Scuti captivates with its colossal size and proximity to Earth. Studying these stars provides valuable insights into the extremes of stellar evolution and the vastness of our cosmic neighborhood.
Westerhout 49-2 Star vs Stephenson 2-18
Comparing Westerhout 49-2 Star and Stephenson 2-18 unveils two cosmic giants that command attention within the expansive tapestry of our universe. Let's delve into the distinctions and similarities between these celestial entities.
Westerhout 49-2 Star
Mass and Luminosity: Westerhout 49-2 Star is renowned for its colossal mass, reaching around 250 solar masses, making it one of the most massive stars ever discovered. Its luminosity exceeds 4 million times that of our Sun, casting a radiant glow within the H II region Westerhout 49.
Temperature and Spectral Type: Cloaked in a reddened hue, Westerhout 49-2 exhibits a scorching temperature of about 35,500 K. Classified as an evolved slash star with a spectral type of O2-3.5If*, it stands among the hottest and most luminous stars, contributing to the cosmic ballet in the Aquila constellation.
Distance from Earth: Situated approximately 36,200 light years away from Earth, Westerhout 49-2 challenges our cosmic perspective, emphasizing the vast distances that separate us from these stellar behemoths.
Stephenson 2-18
Mass and Luminosity: Stephenson 2-18, another celestial giant, boasts a mass that surpasses 200 solar masses, making it one of the most massive stars known to astronomers. Its luminosity, although not as well-documented as Westerhout 49-2, contributes to the brilliance of the Stephenson 2 cluster.
Temperature and Spectral Type: The temperature of Stephenson 2-18 aligns with its classification as a hot, massive star. With a spectral type likely in the O or early B range, its temperature contributes to the intense radiance within the stellar cluster.
Distance from Earth: Stephenson 2-18 resides within the Stephenson 2 star cluster, located in the constellation of Scutum. The exact distance from Earth may vary, but it is generally considered to be thousands of light years away.
Points of Comparison
-
Mass and Luminosity:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 250 solar masses, 4 million L☉.
- Stephenson 2-18: Over 200 solar masses (exact value may vary), luminosity not explicitly stated.
-
Temperature and Spectral Type:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 35,500 K, O2-3.5If*.
- Stephenson 2-18: Hot, likely O or early B spectral type (exact temperature may vary).
-
Distance from Earth:
- Westerhout 49-2 Star: 36,200 light years.
- Stephenson 2-18: Estimated to be thousands of light years away within the Stephenson 2 cluster.
In summary, both Westerhout 49-2 Star and Stephenson 2-18 showcase the extremes of stellar mass and luminosity, contributing to the cosmic spectacle in their respective regions. While Westerhout 49-2 is more extensively studied, Stephenson 2-18 adds its brilliance to the rich tapestry of the Stephenson 2 cluster. Each star, with its unique characteristics, invites astronomers to further explore the mysteries embedded within these celestial giants.
Peering Into the Heart of W49-2
Overview:
Situated approximately 36,200 light years away from Earth, W49-2 looms as one of the universe's most massive entities. Despite sidestepping a Wolf-Rayet star classification, its sheer size places it in an astronomical league of its own.
Birth:
The genesis of this stellar behemoth remains enigmatic. Theories suggest W49-2 may have formed through the cataclysmic collision of two smaller stars or by accumulating an extraordinary amount of mass while residing in a nebula.
Dancing with the Stars: The Mystique of W49-2
In the cosmic ballet of stars, Westerhout 49-2 (W49-2) emerges as a lead performer, captivating astronomers with its enigmatic dance. Nestled within the H II region Westerhout 49, this stellar giant boasts a mass of approximately 250 solar masses, making it one of the most massive and luminous stars ever identified.
Astronomical Marvels in Aquila: The Heart of W49-2
Overview: Situated a staggering 36,200 light years away from Earth, W49-2 defies conventional classifications, standing as one of the universe's most massive entities. Despite sidestepping a Wolf-Rayet star designation, its sheer size places it in an astronomical league of its own.
Birth: The origin story of W49-2 is veiled in cosmic mystery. Theories suggest this celestial behemoth may have formed through the cataclysmic collision of two smaller stars or by gradually accumulating an extraordinary amount of mass while residing in a nebula.
Deciphering the Cosmic Code: Unveiling Uncertainties
Properties: Westerhout 49-2 resides within the H II region Westerhout 49, approximately 11.1 kiloparsecs from our Sun. Cloaked in a reddened hue, it showcases the most significant reddening in the K band among stars in its vicinity. Classified as an evolved slash star with a spectral type of O2-3.5If*, its luminosity of 4,365,000 L☉ emanates from a scorching temperature of about 35,500 K, corresponding to a radius over 55 times that of our Sun.
Uncertainties: The star's properties remain shrouded in uncertainty. Estimates using mass-luminosity relations propose a mass ranging from 90 to 240 M☉. The actual mass likely surpasses the theoretical upper limit of 150 M☉, hinting at a possible binary nature, especially given its bright x-ray emissions. W49-2's cosmic companions, W49-1 and W49-12, share this x-ray brilliance, suggesting a potential binary star trio.
Stellar Riddles: Navigating the Heavens
Heaviest Star Debate: In the cosmic contest for the heaviest star, W49-2 takes center stage with a mass reaching 250 solar masses. However, debates persist, as uncertainties in mass measurement allow other contenders to vie for the heavyweight title. UY Scuti, often deemed the largest star in terms of size, and R136a1, with masses uncertain, add complexity to the stellar hierarchy.
Unveiling Uncertainties: Deciphering W49-2's Enigma
Properties:
Westerhout 49-2 resides within the H II region Westerhout 49, approximately 11.1 kiloparsecs from our Sun. Cloaked in a reddened hue, it showcases the most significant reddening in the K band among stars in its vicinity. Classified as an evolved slash star with a spectral type of O2-3.5If*, its luminosity of 4,365,000 L☉ emanates from a scorching temperature of about 35,500 K, corresponding to a radius over 55 times that of our Sun.
Uncertainties:
The star's properties remain shrouded in uncertainty. Estimates using mass-luminosity relations propose a mass ranging from 90 to 240 M☉. The actual mass likely surpasses the theoretical upper limit of 150 M☉, hinting at a possible binary nature, especially given its bright x-ray emissions. W49-2's cosmic companions, W49-1 and W49-12, share this x-ray brilliance, suggesting a potential binary star trio.
A Celestial Puzzle: W49-2 in Comparison
Heaviest Star Debate:
In the cosmic contest for the heaviest star, W49-2 takes center stage with a mass reaching 250 solar masses. However, debates persist, as uncertainties in mass measurement allow other contenders to vie for the heavyweight title. UY Scuti, often deemed the largest star in terms of size, and R136a1, with masses uncertain, add complexity to the stellar hierarchy.
Charting the Celestial Coordinates of W49-2
Observation Data:
- Epoch J2000, Equinox J2000
- Constellation: Aquila
- Right Ascension: 19h 10m 21.858s
- Declination: 09° 05' 02.53"
Characteristics:
- Spectral Type: O2-3.5If*
- Distance: 36,200 light years (11,100 pc)
Details:
- Mass: 250±120 M☉
- Radius: 55.29 R☉
- Luminosity: 4,365,000 L☉
- Temperature: 35,500 K
Other Designations:
TIC 202340617, 2MASS J19102185+0905025
In the vast cosmic tapestry, Westerhout 49-2 stands as a beacon, challenging our understanding of stellar extremes. As technology advances and uncertainties unravel, W49-2 beckons astronomers to delve deeper into its luminous mysteries, adding another layer to our cosmic comprehension.