- #1
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Just saw this: http://blogs.discovermagazine.com/b...king-possible-supernova-in-nearby-spiral-m95/
Looks like there might be a new supernova in M95!
Looks like there might be a new supernova in M95!
Did We Just Witness a Supernova in M95?
- Thread starter Drakkith
- Start date
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- Supernova
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the potential observation of a supernova in the nearby spiral galaxy M95. Participants share their experiences, observations, and imaging efforts related to this astronomical event, exploring both the implications of the supernova and the technical aspects of observing it.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Conceptual clarification
- Debate/contested
- Experimental/applied
Main Points Raised
- Some participants mention a possible new supernova in M95, referencing a blog post for initial information.
- One participant shares their recent observation of M95 and expresses interest in imaging the supernova.
- Another participant claims it is a type 2 supernova based on Wikipedia information and plans to share their image later.
- A participant discusses the light in their image being affected by Mars' proximity to M95.
- There is a suggestion to estimate the magnitude of the supernova through visual comparison with nearby stars.
- One participant expresses excitement about the event and shares a link to an Astronomy Picture of the Day (APOD) photo related to the supernova.
- Another participant reflects on explaining the significance of the supernova to others at a star party, highlighting its impact despite being just one star.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express enthusiasm about the potential supernova and share observations, but there is no consensus on the specifics of the supernova type or the methods for estimating its magnitude. The discussion remains open with various viewpoints and ongoing exploration.
Contextual Notes
Some participants mention uncertainty regarding the methods for magnitude estimation and the specifics of the supernova classification. There are references to external sources for information, indicating a reliance on varying definitions and interpretations.
Who May Find This Useful
Astronomy enthusiasts, amateur astronomers, and individuals interested in supernovae and observational techniques may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
dipole
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Wow, I was just observing M95 (and a bunch of other galaxies) this past weekend. I'll have to take a look again this weekend and try to spot it, maybe even take an image if I'm feeling ambitious.
- #3
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According to Wikipedia it's a type 2 supernova. I'm in the middle of imaging it right now and will try to remember to post the pic as soon as I get home.
- #4
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- #5
davenn
Science Advisor
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Drakkith said:
Well done buddy. :)
Will have to wait till I get out of hospital to get at my planetarium prog and see if
M95 gets above my horizon
Did you do a magnitude estimate?
Dave
- #6
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davenn said:
Nah, I'm not sure how to do that. Maybe I'll look it up tonight.
- #7
davenn
Science Advisor
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Drakkith said:
Do a visual comparison to other foreground (not stars of the galaxy) stars in the area.
You will be able to get the visual magnitudes of those stars from any decent star map, planetarium prog etc. you should be able to get within + - a magnitude. :)
Dave
- #8
phyzguy
Science Advisor
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Nice image, Drakkith. Apparently it is a Type-IIP core-collapse supernova.
- #9
russ_watters
Mentor
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I'll have an opportunity Monday - that's really cool.
- #10
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Check out the APOD photo here: http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap120322.html
- #11
SHISHKABOB
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Drakkith said:
and to think just one little (compared to the galaxy) star did that
- #12
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SHISHKABOB said:and to think just one little (compared to the galaxy) star did that
I had to explain that to everyone at our clubs star party this weekend. Got a few "Ooohhs" out of it.