RXtau

RXtau is a type of astronomical object that is a candidate for being a brown dwarf. Brown dwarfs are often described as "failed stars" because they are more massive than planets but do not have enough mass to sustain nuclear fusion of hydrogen in their cores, which is the defining characteristic of a true star. RXtau is notable for its spectral characteristics, which are used to classify celestial objects.

The designation RXtau itself comes from astronomical naming conventions. "RX" typically refers to a survey or catalog, and "tau" indicates the constellation in which the object is located. Studying objects like RXtau helps astronomers understand the formation and evolution of substellar objects and the boundary between planets and stars. Determining the exact mass and atmospheric composition of brown dwarfs is crucial for understanding the range of masses that can form in stellar systems.

Research into RXtau and similar objects involves various observational techniques, including spectroscopy and photometry, across different wavelengths of light. These observations allow scientists to infer properties such as temperature, mass, and chemical composition. The ongoing study of such candidates contributes to a broader understanding of the prevalence and diversity of brown dwarfs in the galaxy.