Betelgeuse's turbulent surface may create an illusion of rapid rotation, challenging previous observations.
Betelgeuse, a massive dying star, may appear to rotate rapidly due to its chaotic, turbulent surface. New research suggests its boiling surface creates an illusion of fast rotation, challenging observations that initially indicated the star was rotating at a rate of 5 km/s. Higher resolution observations are needed to better understand Betelgeuse's rapid rotation or if it's merely an illusion.
March 17, 2024
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