T Coronae Borealis (T CrB), also known as the "Blaze Star," is a recurrent nova located about 3,000 light-years away in the constellation Corona Borealis. This binary system includes a white dwarf star pulling material from a red giant companion, causing periodic explosive eruptions.
The star system experienced significant nova outbursts in 1866 and 1946. Recent observations suggest T CrB is entering the final stages before another eruption. Starting in 2015, astronomers noted a significant increase in brightness, similar to what preceded the 1946 explosion. A notable brightness dip in early 2023, known as a "pre-eruption dip," further indicated that an eruption could occur imminently.
While predictions initially pointed toward a potential eruption in mid-2024, as of early 2025, the event has not yet been observed. However, astronomers believe that T CrB could erupt at any time, becoming one of the brightest objects visible to the naked eye, potentially reaching magnitude 2.0.
Continuous monitoring by astronomers worldwide tracks brightness fluctuations and spectral shifts, providing crucial data to anticipate the timing of the eruption. The figures below show live data from ongoing observations.
For a conceptual illustration of the star system, see this illustration .
The Allsky image updates approximately every 15 seconds, and T_CrB plots refresh automatically every 5 minutes.
