Such discoveries help researchers better understand the development of molecular complexity in space during star formation.

Where specialized algorithms fail to classify star-borne pulses, human volunteers with just a little training can step in.

If confirmed as a galaxy, a newly identified star system would be the faintest ever discovered—and could suggest there are others that remain to be found.

Medieval scholars connected celestial events to changes that happened on the ground, such as the overthrow of the king.

"This star provides a unique window into the very early element-forming process in galaxies other than our own."

Some ancient texts record what were likely dying stars, faintly visible from Earth. If close enough, these events can disturb telescopes and even damage the ozone layer.

There are several ways in which stars can destroy and swallow their own planets.