'Be stars' linked to triple systems, defying previous assumptions

'Be stars' linked to triple systems, defying previous assumptions Astronomers have discovered that massive "Be" stars, previously thought to reside in binary stars (double stars), may be part of triple-star systems. This new study led by the University of Leeds calls into question the previously held belief that large Be stars evolved predominantly in binary configurations. Be stars are recognized by their large size, high temperature, brightness, and blue color. These stars are estimated to be 4 to 18 times …