Astronomers Find ‘Mystery Engine’ Powering Massive Nebula Around a Dead Star, Challenging Physics

Jan 13, 2026 - 17:00
Astronomers Find ‘Mystery Engine’ Powering Massive Nebula Around a Dead Star, Challenging Physics
Astronomers have discovered a striking shockwave around the white dwarf RXJ0528+2838, a finding that contradicts existing theories. Observed using the Very Large Telescope, the structure suggests a long-lasting outflow from a system thought to be inactive. The mystery points to an unknown energy source shaping how dead stars interact with space.