When an object gets way too big, we start to lose the meaning of its size. It is easy to imagine how big a city is, maybe possible to comprehend the vastness of earth, or even for some, the giant-like sun. Of course, these are the objects we see or interact with everyday; we have close relationship with them, but can you visualize a sphere with diameter close to 2.8 billion kilometers? Yes, I am talking about the largest known star, VY Canis Majoris, a red hyper-giant. To give you a perspective, the diameter of the earth is 12,756 kilometers. That makes earth an almost invisible dot on the surface of that red hyper-giant.
Check out the video below to help yourself visualize the variety of sizes of astronomical bodies:
[youtube HEheh1BH34Q]In my opinion, one can never comprehend the unbelievable gigantic sizes before they experience a personal comparison, that is to stand side by side with the giant and feel like a droplet of water in the vast, deep ocean.
Of course, no one can ever stand side by side with a red hyper-giant. First of all, you would die from the radiation before you approach it close enough. Second of all, you would evaporate from the heat.
Are you impressed with the vastness of the universe? Does it help you visualize how big stars can get? You’re welcome to post any comment.