An astronomer is observing a distant star that increases its brightness by 15% each year. If the stars initial brightness is measured at 1000 lumens, what will its brightness be after 3 years?

Sat, 02 May 2026 21:28:11 +0000

**The Quiet Science Behind a Brightening Star** Watching the night sky through a telescope or even with the naked eye can spark deep curiosity—what lies beyond our planet? One fascinating phenomenon astronomers track is stellar brightness changes over time. A notable trend emerges when observing a distant star that steadily increases its luminosity by 15% annually. Curious observers wonder: if a star begins at 1,000 lumens, what will its brightness be after just three years? This isn’t just theoretical—it reflects real cosmic patterns with measurable impact for science and exploration. Now, what happens when a star’s brightness rises 15% each year? The growth compounds yearly, meaning each year’s glow depends on the previous total. This compounding effect transforms gradual change into measurable gain. For the star starting at 1,000 lumens, the progression unfolds step by step—each year building on the last in a predictable, scientific rhythm. ### Why This Equation Matters Now