A star on the far side of our galaxy is 40 million times brighter, and 150 times more massive, than our Sun. Although the star appears to be the brightest yet detected, it cannot be seen with the unaided eye because it is shrouded in a huge gas and dust cloud. Astronomers at the University of Florida had to calculate its luminosity from its infrared radiation, which can penetrate the otherwise opaque cloud. Scientists say the size of LBV 1806-20 means it will live a very short life. Singular proof The Florida team says the superstar is at least as...