Stars
Stars are bodies of plasma that undergo constant thermonuclear fusion of hydrogen into helium in their core. Characterised by their luminosity, size and spectra, stars can be organised into seven types: O,B,A,F,G,K, and M. The Sun is the closest star to Earth, this yellow dwarf has an estimated lifetime of 10 billion years. Stars have a life cycle, beginning with the gravitational collapse of gaseous nebula and ending as a white dwarf, neutron star or black hole.
What is a wandering star?
Nope, they haven’t been booted out of for bad behaviour.
Groundbreaking study could reveal secrets of how planets are born
The discovery could reveal in greater detail where another planet like Earth is forming.
Top 10 largest stars in the Universe
Meet the cosmic beasts hundreds of times bigger than our own Sun.
Earth is being bombarded by mysterious bursts of intergalactic radio waves. And it has scientists puzzled
Fast radio bursts originating from beyond the galaxy were first detected almost 20 years ago.
How to spot two legendary dog stars in the night sky this January
Where to look to see Orion's hunting hounds, the great and little dog constellations.
Massive planet collision identified from bizarre space 'afterglow'
The mysterious phenomenon was spotted by an astronomy-enthusiast on social media.
Mars rival Antares is blazing in the sky tonight. Here's how to see it
It's the brightest star in the constellation Scorpius.
A beginner's guide to star hopping: Upgrade your astronomy with this simple trick
Star hopping is a tried-and-trusted technique used to locate things in the night sky. Learn how with this nifty guide.
How to use guiding stars to find Messier 13
Messier 13, aka the Hercules Cluster, is a cluster of several hundred thousand stars in the constellation of Hercules.
What would the sky look like if Earth revolved around a star in the centre of a globular cluster, like Messier 15?
A globular cluster is a stable, tightly bound collection of thousands, if not millions of stars.
Asterisms: A beginner's guide to unofficial star patterns
What is an asterism? What's the difference between an asterism and a constellation? What asterisms can you see in the night sky?
Here’s how you could see a rare bright comet this January – no telescope required
Comet C/2022 E3 ZTF will visit our skies this month, and it might even be visible to the naked eye.
Black holes, exoplanets and distant galaxies: James Webb Space Telescope’s best discoveries after one year in space
In just a few short months, stunning photos from the James Webb Space Telescope have changed the way we see the Universe.
Dyson spheres: How humans (and aliens) could capture a star’s energy
What is a Dyson sphere? How would a Dyson sphere work? Could they be responsible for strange signals from space?
How can I see the Teapot and Teaspoon asterism?
During July and August, low above the southern horizon, lurk two tea-related asterisms.
Best galaxy projectors for a starry room
Add a galaxy projector to your bedroom and sleep under the stars every night.
How do I see Lyra the Lyre?
The brightest star in this small constellation is only around 25 light-years away, making it one of our closest neighbours.
How can I see the Northern Crown?
Discover how to use the Plough to locate Corona Borealis in the night sky.
Instant Genius Podcast | The first stars in the Universe, with Dr Emma Chapman
Physicist Dr Emma Chapman joins us on our podcasts, Instant Genius and Instant Genius Extra.
How can I spot Hydra in the night sky?
Learn how to spot the giant Water Snake constellation with our expert how-to guide.
How to use the Plough as a signpost
The two most recognisable star patterns for northern hemisphere sky-watchers are Orion and the Plough.
How can I see Cancer the Crab?
It's the faintest of all the zodiac constellations, but it's visible now in the evening sky.
How can I see the Winter Triangle?
This asterism is made up of Sirius, Betelgeuse, and Procyon and can be seen with the naked eye.
How can I see the Great Square of Pegasus?
See this asterism in the autumn sky.