Stellar physics
Binary Star Systems
Most stars are not alone. Pairs bound by gravity — seen as visual, spectroscopic, or eclipsing binaries — let astronomers weigh stars directly from their orbits. When the stars are close enough, one can spill matter across its Roche lobe onto the other, driving novae, X-ray binaries, and the Type Ia supernovae that light up the distant universe.
Highlights
- ›Where stellar masses are measured — and where Type Ia supernovae are born
Stars, stages & concepts
Knowledge connections
- Associated withThe Roche Limit
- Associated withType Ia Supernova
- Associated withSirius
Sources
The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.
- ESOEuropean Southern Observatory
Southern-hemisphere observatory data and imagery (VLT, ALMA partner).