What is the nearest supernova candidate (maybe Betelguese?)

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In summary, the nearest supernova candidate to Earth is HR8210, also known as IK Pegasi. It was discovered in the 90's and is about 150 light years away. Its location can be found using the Alcyone Star Information Tool and can be viewed using Fourmilab YourSky Virtual Telescope.
  • #1
RAD4921
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What is the nearest supernova candidate (maybe Betelguese?) to the Earth?
 
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  • #2
That would be HR8210, discovered sometime in the 90's, but only recently recognised as a type-1 supernova candidate. It's only about 150 ly away, and be the end of us if it went off now.
 
  • #3
LURCH said:
That would be HR8210, discovered sometime in the 90's, but only recently recognised as a type-1 supernova candidate. It's only about 150 ly away, and be the end of us if it went off now.
Where is HR8210 located in the sky? It's amazing that a simple search under HR8210 doesn't bring up anything with a location. Thanks.
 
  • #4
(something else now to lay awake nights dreading) :eek:

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MORE

Mike2,

HR8210 is IK Pegasi.

link to Alcyone Star Information Tool --->
http://www.alcyone.de/SIT/

point to 'click for a single star', then click.
enter 8210 in 'enter HR number' box, then click

(
more directly --->
http://www.alcyone.de/SIT/bsc/HR8210.html
)

point to one of the catalogue names along the left and click

use this information to locate on Fourmilab YourSky Virtual Telescope --->
http://www.fourmilab.ch/yoursky/

for example: 21h 24m 7s for Right Ascension, 19°9'29" for Declination , click North 'yes'
point to 'Aim Virtual Telescope' and click
 
Last edited:
  • #5
Thanks

Lurch
Thanks for the info
 

1. What is a supernova?

A supernova is a powerful explosion that occurs at the end of a star's life. It is one of the most energetic events in the universe and can outshine an entire galaxy for a brief period of time.

2. How far away is the nearest supernova candidate?

The nearest supernova candidate is currently thought to be Betelgeuse, which is located approximately 700 light years away from Earth. However, this distance is constantly changing as the star's distance from Earth varies over time.

3. How do scientists identify supernova candidates?

Scientists use a variety of methods to identify potential supernova candidates, including analyzing the light emitted by stars, looking for changes in their brightness or spectrum, and studying the remnants left behind by past supernovae.

4. What makes Betelgeuse a strong candidate for a supernova?

Betelgeuse is a red supergiant star, which means it is nearing the end of its life and is running out of fuel. It is also highly unstable, with frequent changes in brightness and irregular shape changes. These factors make it a strong candidate for a future supernova event.

5. When is Betelgeuse expected to go supernova?

While Betelgeuse is currently exhibiting signs of nearing the end of its life, it is impossible to predict exactly when it will go supernova. Some scientists believe it could happen within the next 100,000 years, while others think it could be much sooner. We will have to continue monitoring the star to make more accurate predictions.

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