12 of the Weirdest and Most Mysterious Space Revelations Ever
10. KIC 846285
Discovery of KIC 8462852 Overview Found Year: 2015
Discovered By: Planet Hunters Project
Distance: 1,470 light-years from Earth
Description:
KIC 8462852, often referred to as the "WTF Star," was discovered by the Planet Hunters Project in 2015. This star, located 1,470 light-years away, exhibited unusual variations in brightness, including a notable 22% decrease. These anomalies captured the attention of citizen scientists involved in the project, leading to further investigation.
Key Features: Brightness Variations: The significant fluctuations in KIC 8462852's light have sparked various theories regarding their cause, ranging from natural phenomena to potential artificial structures. Citizen Science Contribution: The involvement of citizen scientists in the Planet Hunters Project emphasizes the collaborative nature of modern astronomical research. Conclusion The discovery of KIC 8462852 and its peculiar light variations has profound implications for our understanding of stellar behavior. This finding not only raises intriguing questions about the nature of the star but also highlights the impact of citizen science in advancing astronomical knowledge.
KIC 8462852 Overview
Description:
Despite extensive research, no definitive explanation has been found for the persistent dimming of KIC 8462852. Various theories have been proposed, including the possibility of a highly eccentric orbit or an uneven distribution of dust around the star. However, none of these hypotheses have been confirmed.
Key Features: Unique Fluctuations: KIC 8462852 is the only F-type main sequence star known to exhibit such irregular brightness fluctuations, marking it as a unique case in stellar studies. Common Phenomenon: While KIC 8462852 is notable for its behavior, it is not the only star to experience irregular dimmings, suggesting that such phenomena may be more common than previously understood. Conclusion The ongoing mystery surrounding KIC 8462852's dimming continues to intrigue astronomers, highlighting the complexities of stellar behavior. This case underscores the need for further investigation into the mechanisms behind such irregularities, potentially leading to new discoveries in the field of astrophysics.
