White Dwarf Stars "Can Produce Colors Nobody Expected," Including What May Be the First Green Star

White dwarf stars, known for their typical colors of red, white, orange, and blue, may reveal unexpected hues according to a new study. White dwarfs, which are incredibly dense and hot, were thought to only emit colors dictated by temperature. However, astronomers from the University of Warwick have discovered that some white dwarfs could potentially exhibit colors such as green, pink, cyan, and yellow.

Lead author Dr. Mark Hollands explained that the colors are influenced by the star's chemical composition and density, with the presence of elements like calcium, carbon, and sodium interacting with the dense helium plasma. By studying the spectral data of white dwarfs, the team found that the colors of these stars fall into distinct groups, each linked to the composition of their atmospheres.

Among the surprising findings is the potential existence of a green star, WD J1330+6435, which has an atmosphere rich in lithium, sodium, and calcium. This green hue results from the absorption of orange light, leaving behind a ghostly green glow that would appear alien and otherworldly.