Astronomers the world over have been buzzing with excitement after the recent detection of a supernova in the Messier 82 galaxy, a nearby galaxy also known as the Cigar galaxy. The supernova was observed in a brilliant display of bright light in an already very luminous starburst galaxy.
The M82 galaxy is a starburst galaxy that is five times more luminous than our home galaxy. The extra brightness is primarily due to a very high rate of star formation. While the M82 galaxy is 12 million light years away, this is a relatively short distance in cosmic terms. This means that amateur astronomers and people with relatively small telescopes can also view the supernova.
The stellar explosion was first seen at 7:20 pm UT on Jan 21. When it was first detected, the explosion was first classified as a potential supernova. However, the explosion brightened considerably by Jan. 23 prompting researchers to look at previously recorded observations. Upon reviewing earlier records, researchers concluded that the supernova could be seen as early as Jan. 15.
By Jan. 22, scientists at the Apache Point Observatory were already using the ARC telescope to monitor the cosmic event. The scientists who analyzed the data concluded that the supernova was a Type Ia, a type of supernova that usually occurs in binary star systems containing at least one white dwarf. However, further observations are required before any concrete findings can be announced.
"At UT 2014 Jan 22.305, we obtained a spectrum of PSN_J09554214+6940260 (discoverer: S. J. Fossey) with the Dual Imaging Spectrograph on the ARC 3.5m telescope," said the Apache Point Observatory team. "We classify this as a Type Ia supernova with a Si II velocity of 20000 km/s. The best superfit match is SN2002bo at -14d. The supernova has a red continuum and deep Na D absorption."
The M82 galaxy supernova can be seen at a point in the middle of the Little Dipper and the Big Dipper. Both professional and amateur astronomers can view the spectacle in the Northern Hemisphere. Scientists are also optimistic that the supernova may brighten even more and if it does, the explosion will also be visible using even normal pair of binoculars.
