Montana Might Get a Front Row Seat to a Real-Life Star Explosion

Heads up, stargazers and space nerds. Something kind of epic could be coming to our sky soon. And no, it’s not aliens or another Elon Musk train of satellites. It’s something much cooler: a freakin’ star explosion.

Okay, technically it’s known as a “nova,” and it may blaze in our sky sometime soon. This particular star is even called by a name that sounds fancy (T Coronae Borealis), but others just call it the “Blaze Star,” which has the ring of a cannabis strain or your favorite local radio station. (*wink wink*)

This thing only goes off about once every 80 years. The last time it went off was in 1946, so we’re due. And when it arrives, the star will rapidly switch from completely invisible to bright enough to see with your bare eye for an entire week. How bright? , About as bright as the North Star bright.

The best part: you don’t need a telescope, a PhD, or one of those space apps to catch a glimpse. Just look up.

Want to try spotting it? Look for the Corona Borealis constellation. It’s a little arc of stars near that super bright one called Arcturus. The best time to stare up is about three hours after sunset, when it climbs in the east.

Now, before you camp out in your backyard with snacks and a blanket, just remember that the real date of this thing is somewhat of a mystery. Some scientists believe it could blow as soon as March 27th, others are betting on later in the year. It’s pretty much the space equivalent of “maybe soon, maybe not.

Until then, keep your eyes on Montana's BIG SKY!