Discover the Size of Icarus: Myth vs. Cosmic Wonder

Explore the intriguing size of Icarus, both mythologically and astronomically, as we delve into this fascinating duality.

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Icarus, a mythological character, is typically depicted as human-sized. However, if you refer to the star known as Icarus (or MACS J1149+2223 Lensed Star 1), it is an enormous blue supergiant, magnified by gravitational lensing, located about 9 billion light-years from Earth.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the myth of Icarus? Icarus is a character from Greek mythology who is known for flying too close to the sun with wings made of feathers and wax, leading to his downfall.
  2. What type of star is Icarus? The star Icarus, also referred to as MACS J1149+2223, is a blue supergiant star, magnified by gravitational lensing, located about 9 billion light-years from Earth.
  3. How does gravitational lensing work? Gravitational lensing occurs when a massive object, like a galaxy, bends the light from an object behind it, magnifying and distorting its appearance.
  4. What is the distance of Icarus from Earth? Icarus is approximately 9 billion light-years away from Earth.