Constellation Lyra

Still in the vicinity of our sun lies the star Vega in the constellation of Lyra. The brightest star north of the celestial equator, its light needs 26 years to reach us. Does that mean, that the star may have ceased existence in the meantime?

No – because 26 years is an insignificant time span in the life cycle of a star, and if there was a cataclysmic event or Supernova to be expected any time soon, there would be unmistakable signs. Vega, however, will shine for many million years more.