Two images of V838 Monocerotis, a variable star, taken in May and September 2002 by the South African Astronomical Observatory. The images show the star's dramatic transformation and the expansion of its surrounding light echo nebula. The nebula is a result of light reflecting off shells of material ejected by the star, offering a glimpse into its history. The star's behavior defies conventional understanding of stellar life cycles.

Astronomy Picture from 03/10/2002

V838 Mon: Mystery Star

Source: https://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap021003.html


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