Astronomers using the Gemini North telescope's 'Alopeke' instrument have discovered a companion star orbiting Betelgeuse, solving the mystery of the star's six-year brightness fluctuations. The companion, an A- or B-type star, is located incredibly close to Betelgeuse within its atmosphere. This discovery, published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, provides insights into the life cycle of red supergiants and their variability. The companion's proximity suggests it will eventually be consumed by Betelgeuse within the next 10,000 years.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.