Stellar rotation in the context of "BO Microscopii"


Stellar rotation in the context of "BO Microscopii"

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⭐ Core Definition: Stellar rotation

Stellar rotation is the angular motion of a star about its axis. The rate of rotation can be measured from the spectrum of the star, or by timing the movements of active features on the surface.

The rotation of a star produces an equatorial bulge due to centrifugal force. As stars are not solid bodies, they can also undergo differential rotation. Thus the equator of the star can rotate at a different angular velocity than the higher latitudes. These differences in the rate of rotation within a star may have a significant role in the generation of a stellar magnetic field.

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πŸ‘‰ Stellar rotation in the context of BO Microscopii

BO Microscopii (BO Mic) is a star in the constellation Microscopium located about 170 light-years (52 parsecs; 11Β million astronomical units) from the Sun. It has been dubbed "Speedy Mic" because of its very rapid rotation. The projected rotational velocity at the equator of this star is about 135Β km/s (84Β mi/s), which, with an estimated inclination of 70Β° to the line of sight from the Earth, means it completes a rotation every 0.380Β Β±Β 0.004 days (9.120Β Β±Β 0.096 hours).

The photosphere of this star shows a high level of magnetic activity, with multiple star spots and prominences observed at the same time. As many as 25 prominences have been observed simultaneously, extending outward as far as 3.6 times the radius of the star. BO Mic is a flare star that undergoes sudden increases in X-ray and ultraviolet emissions. These events can emit a hundred times more energy than large solar flares. Speedy Mic is one of the most active stars in the vicinity of the Sun.

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