Stars
Supernova
A spectacular stellar explosion
About Supernova
A supernova is a powerful and luminous explosion of a star. It temporarily outshines entire galaxies and disperses heavy elements into space.
Scientific Facts
A supernova can outshine 10 billion Suns. Type II supernovae result from core collapse of massive stars. Type Ia supernovae occur in binary systems.
Interesting Facts
Elements heavier than iron are created in supernovae. The last visible supernova in our galaxy was in 1604 (Kepler's Supernova). Neutron stars and black holes are supernova remnants.
Fun Facts
A supernova occurs about once every 50 years in a galaxy like the Milky Way. The remains can form neutron stars or black holes.
Discovery
First recorded supernova by Chinese astronomers in 185 AD. SN 1987A in the LMC was the closest modern observation.