Brightest Supernova Seen in Generations Spotted by Scientists
Scientists have spotted a new supernova which has grabbed widespread attention among the astronomical community.
The supernova, which was discovered by scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, is garnering much attention due to its proximity and because scientists are arguing that it is the youngest supernova ever detected.
Experts believe that they caught the supernova within hours of its explosion and haven’t seen a supernova of its kind so close since 1986.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
A robotic telescope and computer algorithms detected the supernova, which is only 21 million light-years away from earth.
It has some people arguing that it is the brightest supernova witnessed in 40 years.
Because the supernova was caught so early in its explosion, experts are saying that catching it so early on is a “rare treat.”
Joshua Bloom, an assistant professor of astronomy at the UC Berkeley called the discovery, “the supernova of a generation.”
The supernova is a Type la supernova and is the kind of supernova that scientists use to measure the expansion of the universe.
Mark Sullivan of Oxford University said of the detection, “Seeing one explode so close by allows us to study these events in unprecedented detail.”
Astronomers will likely be researching the supernova for around a decade, and some believe that the supernova will be the most-studied star explosion ever.
Scientists believe that average people will be able to spot the supernova within a couple of week’s time with a “decent pair of binoculars.”
However, some lucky people will be able to take a glimpse of the supernova early as Minnesota State University is hosting a “Star Party.”
The party, which happens several times a year, will be held through the Regional Science Center at the University.
David Winerich of the Center said that the supernova offers scientists an excellent capacity for extended research and added that the party is “an opportunity for people to come and enjoy the beautiful night sky.”
The party will go on from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and will display images of the supernova to interested observers at the Regional Center.
