Hungarian researchers have deciphered the secret of super-strong stellar flares

Hungarian researchers have discovered the reasons behind the extreme outbursts of the red giant star KIC 2852961. Their study indicates that interactions between the star and a nearby companion star, along with differential rotation, contribute to its intense activity. The gravitational influence of the companion star causes synchronization of the red giant's rotation and orbit, leading to conditions that favor magnetic energy accumulation. This results in the formation of large dark star spots on the surface, which store significant magnetic energy and produce powerful eruptions. The findings challenge the notion that red giants are typically magnetically quiet and highlight their potential for high activity if their rotation remains rapid.