Astronomers Directly Observe Powerful Stellar Eruption Beyond Solar System

In a discovery hailed as a milestone for astrophysics, scientists using the LOFAR radio telescope and ESA’s XMM-Newton observatory have for the first time directly observed a true coronal mass ejection (CME) erupting from a star outside our solar system. The findings, published in ‘Nature’, radically advance the understanding of how stellar storms could shape the habitability of exoplanets.

Breakthrough in Observational Astronomy

“Astronomers have wanted to spot a CME on another star for decades. This is the first time we’ve definitively seen material escape into space,” said Dr. Joe Callingham, lead author of the research.

The event was observed from a magnetically active red dwarf, whose explosive outburst sent charged plasma racing at 2,400 km/s—much faster than most solar eruptions. The CME’s signature radio burst was too strong to be contained by the star’s own magnetic field, confirming a clean escape of plasma into surrounding space.

Risk for Exoplanets

Scientists warn that such energetic outbursts could strip atmospheres from planets orbiting close to red dwarfs. This phenomenon, if common, could diminish the chances of finding habitable, Earth-like planets around these stars, even though red dwarfs are the most abundant in our galaxy.

The breakthrough relied on LOFAR’s high sensitivity and XMM-Newton’s X-ray data, with joint analysis allowing for the definitive identification. The research opens new questions about planetary defense from space weather, both in our solar system and beyond.

Indian Collaboration and Global Context

India’s growing participation in international radio astronomy initiatives, including high-altitude observatories and advanced data analysis, underscores the country’s contribution to cutting-edge space science. The discovery has already sparked a new wave of research focused on characterizing space weather hazards in extrasolar planetary systems.