Supernova prediction: SN Refsdal

In summary, a supernova was recently predicted and observed in advance due to gravitational lensing. The host galaxy has a redshift of 1.49 and we see multiple images with a time delay between them. The labeling system of the team is unclear, but they were able to see the supernova in at least one image, with another image possibly showing the supernova 50 years ago and another expected to show it in the next decade.
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The supernova happened long ago of course, but as far as I know it is the first time the visibility for us is predicted in advance: the host galaxy is at a redshift of 1.49, and due to gravitational lensing we see multiple images with a significant time delay between them. I don't understand the labeling system of the team (see reference below), but they saw the supernova in at least one of the images, another image probably had the supernova 50 years ago, and another image should get it within the next decade.

Multiple Images of a Highly Magnified Supernova Formed by an Early-Type Cluster Galaxy Lens
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  • #2
Wow, that's pretty cool.
 

1. What is SN Refsdal and why is it significant?

SN Refsdal is the designation for a supernova event that was predicted to occur in a galaxy cluster known as MACS J1149.5+2223. It is significant because it was the first time that a supernova was predicted and observed multiple times using gravitational lensing, providing valuable insights into the nature of dark matter and the expansion of the universe.

2. How was SN Refsdal predicted?

SN Refsdal was predicted using a technique called gravitational lensing, which occurs when the gravity of a massive object, such as a galaxy, bends and magnifies the light from a more distant object, in this case a supernova. By studying the light from the supernova, scientists were able to predict when and where it would appear in the future.

3. Did the predicted SN Refsdal event actually occur?

Yes, the predicted SN Refsdal event did occur in December 2015. It was observed by the Hubble Space Telescope and other ground-based telescopes, confirming the accuracy of the prediction.

4. What can we learn from studying SN Refsdal?

Studying SN Refsdal provides valuable information about the distribution of dark matter in galaxy clusters, as well as the expansion rate of the universe. It also helps us better understand the physics of supernovae and their role in the evolution of galaxies.

5. Are there any future predictions for similar supernova events?

Yes, scientists are continuously monitoring galaxy clusters for potential supernova events that could be predicted using gravitational lensing. The James Webb Space Telescope, set to launch in 2021, will also have the capability to observe and study these events in even greater detail.

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