Astronomers predict binary stellar merger in 2022
Astronomers are predicting that a two binary stars that orbit so close together that they share an atmosphere will merge and explode as a bright red nova in approximately five years.
According to the actual paper [pdf], they also predict that this will be a naked eye event, visible in the northern hemisphere.
Note that a red nova is not a supernova. These are different types of explosions, with the supernova many times more powerful and rare. Nonetheless, the event itself will spectacular, should the prediction be correct.
Astronomers are predicting that a two binary stars that orbit so close together that they share an atmosphere will merge and explode as a bright red nova in approximately five years.
According to the actual paper [pdf], they also predict that this will be a naked eye event, visible in the northern hemisphere.
Note that a red nova is not a supernova. These are different types of explosions, with the supernova many times more powerful and rare. Nonetheless, the event itself will spectacular, should the prediction be correct.
