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Observing Supernovae

The explosions of massive stars at the end of their lives are rare events in any galaxy, happening once every 20 years. In this group you can find activities for observing supernovae in the Milky Way and more distant galaxies.

 We’ve collected activities for observing the remains of these rare events, called supernova remnants. There are 7 historical remnants but hundreds of more recent ones to observe.

 Working in partnership with the European Hands on Universe, we have activites for observing recent supernovae in distant galaxies.

Recent group posts

Plotting Supernova light curves

Group: Observing Supernovae
11 December, 2009
The main goal of this activity is to obtain a supernova light curve using downloaded data taken with the Faulkes Telescopes. The software package, SalsaJ will be used to carry out photometry on the supernova and standard star (a star which has already had its magnitude accurately calculated).

Cassiopeia A in many colors

Group: Observing Supernovae
11 August, 2008
Use astronomical data files taken with the Hubble Space telescope, Spitzer space telescope and Faulkes Telescope North you will create your own color images of the ancient cosmic explosion Cassiopeia A.

Observing Ancient Cosmic Explosions

Group: Observing Supernovae
23 July, 2008
Observe ancient cosmic explosions in our own Galaxy. Use your data to create color images of these beautiful objects.
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