Wolf-Rayet 104 poses less threat of gamma-ray bursts

A new study has provided fresh insights about Wolf-Rayet 104, also known as the "pinwheel star." Researchers now believe it is less likely to become a dangerous gamma-ray burst (GRB). This finding comes from observations made at the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii. The study confirms that WR 104 has two massive stars revolving around each other every eight months. The collision of their powerful winds creates a rotating dust spiral that emits infrared light. This pinwheel structure was originally discovered in 1999 and intrigued astronomers due to its unique features. Previously, scientists considered WR 104 a potential threat, as models suggested it could aim a GRB directly at Earth when one star explodes. However, the new research shows that the stars' orbit is tilted 30 to 40 degrees away from our line of sight. This means Earth is safer from a potent cosmic blast than once feared. Grant Hill, the researcher behind the study, used advanced instruments to measure the stars' movements and analyze their winds. He expressed relief regarding the reduced threat. However, he also noted an unexpected twist: the dust spiral and the stars' orbit are significantly misaligned, raising new questions about how such structures form. Astronomers often encounter surprises during their investigations. Hill commented that each discovery brings an opportunity to learn more about the universe, suggesting WR 104 still holds many secrets.