Astronomers have discovered a record-breaking stellar eclipse in a binary star system far, far away. Every 69 years the newly discovered system, known only as TYC 2505-672-1, is shrouded in darkness for nearly 3.5 years. According to a study forthcoming in Astronomical Journal, it is both the longest eclipse duration and the longest period between eclipses ever recorded.
The researchers say that TYC 2505-672-1 broke the record previously held by Epsilon Aurigae, a star that is eclipsed every 27 years for up to 730 days. “Epsilon Aurigae is much closer – about 2200 light-years from Earth – and brighter, which has allowed astronomers to study it extensively,” explains study first author Joey Rodriguez.
via Mental Floss
IMAGE CREDIT: JEREMY TEAFORD, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY
