A star in our galaxy may be about to explode

Just above Orion's belt, slightly to the left, is the large and bright red-star Betelgeuse.

But since October it has been possible to see with the naked eye that Betelgeuse has radically decreased in brightness. Now it shines weaker than we humans have ever observed.

The decrease in brightness can be a natural variation. But it could also be a sign that the star will soon explode and become a supernova. The last thing that happened in our galaxy was 1604.

A supernova is one of the most violent things that can happen in the universe and in the strong explosion many new elements are formed, which can give rise to new planets.

Since Betelgeuse is so close, about 640 light years away, it would be a unique chance to see a supernova with the naked eye.

However, had a supernova been formed within 100-200 light years from Earth, it could have been our downfall.

Betelgeuse can thus explode tonight - but also in 100,000 years. Scientists have no way to predict when a star will explode and become a supernova.

- We do not know what is happening in the star's interior, the only thing we can monitor is the outer parts, says Jesper Sollerman, professor of astronomy at Stockholm University.

But what is the light reduction a sign of then?

- That it gets darker is interpreted that the star is doing something unusual. And then you think there may be something going on. But it would probably have been the same reaction if it became brighter, says Jesper Sollerman.

Play the video above to see where in the starry sky you can scout for Betelgeuse.