Observing the new supernova in Ursa Major (M101, pinwheel galaxy)

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    Galaxy Major Supernova
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the observation of a new supernova in the pinwheel galaxy, M101, located in Ursa Major. Participants share their experiences and plans for viewing the supernova, as well as their thoughts on related astronomical phenomena.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the supernova's location in M101 and its current magnitude of 10.2, indicating it is not visible to the naked eye but can be seen with binoculars.
  • Another participant expresses a desire to view the supernova but is uncertain if conditions will allow it, depending on the brightness into the weekend.
  • Several participants mention their attempts to observe the supernova, with one expressing frustration over not having clear skies for viewing.
  • A participant references a specific article with updated images of the supernova, indicating ongoing interest in its visual documentation.
  • One participant expresses a preference for a different supernova event, specifically mentioning the second version of the Crab Nebula supernova, suggesting a comparison of interest between different supernovae.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally share a common interest in observing the supernova, but there is no consensus on viewing conditions or preferences for different supernova events. The discussion remains open-ended with various personal experiences and expectations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty regarding weather conditions affecting visibility and the timing of their observations. There is also a lack of detailed technical discussion about the supernova itself.

Who May Find This Useful

Astronomy enthusiasts, amateur astronomers, and those interested in supernova observations may find this discussion relevant.

tiny-tim
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The new supernova is in the "pinwheel galaxy", M101, near the edge of a spiral arm.

The galaxy is in Ursa Major, roughly where the tip of the bear's tail would be if it flicked upward!

It has reached magnitude 10.2, so not a naked-eye object, but visible with binoculars.

For a map, see http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/13/Ursa_Major_IAU.svg/1000px-Ursa_Major_IAU.svg.png"

For the story, see http://www.skyandtelescope.com/observing/highlights/128430288.html"
 
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Thx for the info Tim.
 
Nice! I'll have to try to get a view soon. Don't know if I will be able to unless it remains bright into the weekend, as I get off after the big dipper is close to passing out of view from my yard.
 
Thunderf00t has some yewtewbz anent...
 
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i plan to see tonight, i hope i have clear skies !
 
I like the picture at the top of this article: http://www.global-rent-a-scope.com/aartscope/2011/8/27/its-a-really-super-nova.html

The article has been updated with different pics since first sighting.

Not a single clear night for me :cry: so vacarious viewing is the only option.
 
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I wish it was more the second version of the crab nebula supernova :(
 

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