Astronomers have identified a white dwarf star that appears green, likely due to having consumed its planetary system.

What it means

This is the first documented case of a white dwarf star appearing green. The star, WD J1330+6435, is a dense stellar remnant about 280 light-years away. It turned green because it has consumed rocky planetary debris rich in sodium; the sodium in its atmosphere absorbs orange light, making the star appear green to observers. This discovery confirms that white dwarfs can change color based on the material they accrete from their planetary systems.

Accuracy & sourcesSourced

The claim is well-supported by multiple reputable science news outlets (Space.com, Phys.org, etc.) reporting on a peer-reviewed study or announcement from astronomers. The primary source is likely a paper in a journal like Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society or an announcement from a research team. The consistency across reports and the specific details (star designation, distance, temperature, sodium absorption) indicate a solid, verified discovery.

How new

This is genuinely new, with articles appearing within the last 2 days (late October 2026).

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