Astronomers have long been fascinated by Betelgeuse, a bright red star in the constellation Orion. For centuries, scientists have puzzled over why its twinkle grows lighter and then dimmer over time. The mystery has finally been solved, thanks to NASA’s Gemini North telescope in Hawaii.
According to Steve Howell, a senior research scientist at NASA’s Ames Research Centre in California, the key to unlocking this secret lies in Betelgeuse’s companion star, nicknamed “Betelbuddy.” This hidden star pushes light-blocking dust out of the way, temporarily making it glow more brightly. While theories about Betelbuddy existed for years, NASA has now provided definitive proof of its existence.
Howell praised Gemini North’s advanced technology, which enabled the detection of Betelbuddy due to its ability to obtain high angular resolutions and sharp contrasts. This breakthrough discovery marks a significant milestone in understanding one of the most iconic stars in the night sky.
Source: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/07/21/mystery-of-stars-twinkle-solved-after-hundreds-of-years