A STAR has been discovered which flips its magnetic field from north to south and could help researchers better understand the sun’s magnetic engine.

Astrophysicists caught the star known as tau Bootis flipping its poles like the sun as they mapped the magnetic fields of stars.

It is the first time such a phenomenon has been seen in a star other than the sun.

St Andrews University researchers Professor Andrew Collier Cameron and Dr Moira Jardine were among the international team of astrophysicists who made the observation.

Dr Jardine said, “This is a fascinating observation…

“It has given us the first glimpse of how other stars flip their north and south magnetic poles.

“It also suggests that massive planets may be able to influence the magnetic cycles of their stars.”

It has been known for many years that the sun’s magnetic field changes its direction every 11 years.

The star, which can be seen with the naked eye, is 51 light years from Earth.