A stellar explosion, the supernova is the sensational death of a star. Can shine as bright as 100 billion Suns and radiate as much energy as the Sun emits more than 10 million years.
Jets of high-energy light and matter are propelled into space and cause enormous bursts of gamma rays and emit intense X-ray radiation for thousands of years.
Astronomers believe this process creates the same building blocks of planets, people and plants. Meet the world’s leading supernova hunters, and take a look at recorded supernovas throughout history.
