"Shattering Stellar Evolution Theories: The Surprising Truth About Triple Stars"

Researchers from the University of Leeds have discovered evidence suggesting that massive Be stars, known for their gas discs, are likely part of triple star systems rather than binary systems. This finding challenges existing theories on star formation and has implications for understanding black holes, neutron stars, and gravitational waves. The study, based on data from the Gaia satellite, reveals that the Be stars have a lower rate of companions than B stars, but further analysis suggests that a third star is involved, forcing the companion closer to the Be star and allowing mass transfer to form the characteristic gas disc. This discovery could revolutionize our understanding of stellar evolution and other astronomical phenomena.