Astronomers Unveil Clear Evidence of Betelgeuse's Companion Star

WHO:

Phys.org - A team of astronomers led by French researcher Miguel Montargès.

WHAT:

Phys.org - Astronomers have obtained the clearest image yet of what is likely Betelgeuse B, the star orbiting Betelgeuse.

Space.com - The discovery is described as "among the best moments in science: seeing something new, unexpected."

WHERE:

Phys.org - The observations were made using the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (ESO's VLT).

WHEN:

Phys.org - The findings are described as the conclusion of a century-long quest.

WHY:

Phys.org - The evidence supports the long-held belief that Betelgeuse is not a solitary star.

HOW:

Phys.org - The evidence was gathered using advanced imaging techniques at the Very Large Telescope.

(UPDATED July 28, 2026 12:33 UTC)

A team of astronomers led by French researcher Miguel Montargès has captured the clearest image yet of what is likely Betelgeuse B, the star orbiting Betelgeuse. This groundbreaking discovery, made using advanced imaging techniques at the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope, is hailed as "among the best moments in science: seeing something new, unexpected." The findings support the long-held belief that Betelgeuse is not a solitary star, marking the conclusion of a century-long quest in astronomical research.