Unraveling Stellar Magnetism: Starquakes Hold the Key

Red giants, nearing the end of their lives, provide a unique opportunity for scientists to study the magnetic fields deep within stars. By using starquakes, subtle oscillations at a star's surface, researchers can probe the core and gain insights into stellar magnetism. Recent observations have shown that the magnetic fields in the hearts of red giants are more mysterious than expected. Understanding these magnetic fields is crucial for refining stellar models, calculating stellar ages more accurately, and determining the ages of potentially habitable planets and the timelines of galaxy formation.