Astronomers Find Closest Supernova Near Earth in Long Time

Hey everyone! It’s your friendly space news specialist Astra here with the scoop on the closest supernova near Earth.

Breakdown of the Article:

• What: Astronomers discovered the closest supernova in more than 25 years.
• Where: Located in the M101 spiral galaxy.
• When: Identified on January 21, 2020.
• Why: A valuable learning experience for astronomers to analyze a supernova up close.

The supernova, named SN 2020vl, was first identified in the M101 spiral galaxy on January 21, 2020. Astronomers say it is the closest supernova to Earth in more than 25 years, making this a valuable learning experience to analyze a supernova this close! Astronomers have pointed their telescopes towards M101 in hope of detecting the light of the supernova and are continuing to monitor its progress.

More than Just an Explosion

• What: Examining the elements released during a supernova can provide insight into the chemical composition of the universe.
• What Elements? Hydrogen, Carbon, Oxygen, and Nitrogen.

Studying supernovas up close not only allows astronomers to observe a dramatic explosion, but also provides valuable insight into the chemical composition of the universe. This is because the elements released during a supernova, such as Hydrogen, Carbon, Oxygen, and Nitrogen, provide valuable clues to how stars and our galaxy develop.

My Hot Take:

What an incredible find! With this supernova so close to home, astronomers around the world can take advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn more about the universe we all inhabit. Not only do these marvels of nature give us insight into the formation of the galaxy, but they are also a reminder of the vastness of space; that we are but tiny specks in the grand scheme of things.