Hubble Space Telescope image of the NGC3603 star cluster highlighting the binary star system NGC3603-A1.

Astronomers discover one of the most massive binary stars in the galaxy - one star weighs 93 times the mass of our Sun, its companion is roughly 70 solar masses | AI News Digest

Published: August 30, 2025, 6:13 p.m. Science Positive

Astronomers have discovered one of the most massive binary star systems in the Milky Way, NGC3603-A1, with one star weighing 93 times the mass of the Sun and its companion at 70 solar masses. The stars orbit each other every 3.8 days, showcasing a dynamic relationship that influences their evolution. This discovery was made possible by a crucial observation from Sarah Bodansky, who identified key spectral features in Hubble data. The system, located in a star-forming region, challenges existing models of massive stars and their life cycles. Understanding such binary systems is vital for predicting future gravitational wave events. This finding highlights the importance of collaboration and innovative thinking in astronomical research.

AstronomyBinary StarsHubble Space TelescopeStellar EvolutionGravitational Waves