A giant’s explosion from Earth

1 From Earth, Betelgeuse forms the right shoulder of Orion, the Hunter. Although it’s young, it has progressed rapidly through its stellar evolution and is close to going supernova.

2 The sheer magnitude of the death of Betelgeuse – one of the largest known stars – will make itself apparent in Earth’s skies. It should remain visible for several months.

3 When the light from its demise reaches us after travelling for 642 light years, Betelgeuse will greatly outshine the Moon in our night sky.