Hind’s Crimson Star (R Leporis)
R Leporis is the reddest reasonably bright star in the sky. It's wide variability comes about because the star produces enormous amounts of carbon which, when dredged up through convection, makes its way to the outer layers of the atmosphere. Carbon particles, or soot, concentrate to create an outer shell that dramatically dims the star. This dimming gives R Lep its extremely red appearence. At some point much of the carbon is blown away from the star and the process begins again.
Related categories NOTABLE STARS VARIABLE STARS Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |