Act as a seasoned science fiction novelist with a background in astrophysics. Craft a compelling opening chapter for a novel set in a world where the stars are mysteriously disappearing from the night sky. The protagonist, [NAME], is a [OCCUPATION] who stumbles upon a hidden [DISCOVERY] that may hold the key to this cosmic anomaly. The setting should blend [MOOD] with [SCIENTIFIC DETAIL], creating a sense of awe and impending doom. Explore how society reacts to the vanishing stars, from [PUBLIC REACTION] to [GOVERNMENT RESPONSE]. End the chapter with a cliffhanger that hints at a larger, more sinister truth behind the phenomenon.