Two astronomers from North West University (NWU) are part of a star-studded research team from 15 countries that has observed star bursts – or growth spurts – previously unknown to humankind, providing a rare glimpse into how high-mass stars grow even larger. The growth bursts of high-mass protostars like G358 were seldom seen by astronomers as these events were rare and difficult to observe directly, Chibueze said. In this instance, the global research team has been using what is known as "maser" emission phenomena to study the star. "The team's discoveries are hugely exciting and we are hopeful that further investigation will reveal more about the physical processes taking place within the G358 star," Chibueze said. "New horizons are opening up in space and it is wonderful that NWU and South Africa are part of it."

Source: News 24 January 14, 2020 09:00 UTC