大质量恒星生命结束之谜揭示

Core Insights - A rare cosmic event involving a massive star has been reported, revealing insights into the life cycle of massive stars and confirming predictions about their end-of-life structures [1][2] Group 1: Stellar Evolution - The study provides new insights into stellar evolution, particularly regarding the end of life for massive stars, which can be tens to hundreds of times the mass of the Sun [1] - There are existing theoretical discrepancies regarding the "birth" and "death" of massive stars, particularly concerning their shell structures composed of different elements [1] Group 2: Supernova Observation - Researchers from Northwestern University observed supernova 2021yfj, where the progenitor star appeared to have shed most of its outer layers, revealing its internal structure during the explosion [1] - A thick, massive shell rich in silicon and sulfur was detected, which was expelled shortly before the supernova, alongside unexpected helium presence [1] Group 3: Theoretical Implications - The exposed internal structure of the star challenges existing theories on mass loss and shedding mechanisms in massive stars, suggesting the involvement of a rare mechanism [1]