Supernovae: The Explosive Death of Stars

A supernova is the colossal explosion that marks the end of a massive star’s life.
In just seconds, a supernova can outshine an entire galaxy.
These explosions release shockwaves that trigger the birth of new stars.
Supernovae forge heavy elements like gold, silver, and uranium, seeding the universe.
There are two main types: core-collapse (massive stars) and Type Ia (white dwarf detonation).
The energy from a supernova can briefly equal the total energy output of the Sun over its entire lifetime.
Supernova remnants, like the Crab Nebula, glow for thousands of years after the blast.
The shockwaves from supernovae help shape galaxies and spread essential elements into space.
Astronomers use Type Ia supernovae as “standard candles” to measure cosmic distances.
Without supernovae, Earth—and life itself—would not have the elements needed to exist.