Artist’s impression of the red hypergiant star VY Canis Majoris. Located about 3,009 light-years from Earth, VY Canis Majoris is possibly the most massive star in the Milky Way.

An curved arrow pointing right. VY Canis Majoris is a giant star rapidly losing weight. Astronomers have figured out what causes this weight loss. Produced by Emma Fierberg. Original Reporting by ...