Supernova

usgb/ˈsuːpərnəʊvə/
noun

A star that suddenly becomes extremely bright because of a catastrophic explosion that ejects most of its mass.

Scientists discovered a supernova in a distant galaxy.
Visual representation of "supernova" - A star that suddenly becomes extremely bright because of a catastrophic explosion that ejects most of its mass.

Often appears as...

  • discover a supernova
  • observe a supernova

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Visual representation of "supernova"
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Astronomical Event

Supernova refers to an event in space, not something on Earth, relating to the end of a star's life cycle.

Illustration for Astronomical Event
The Hubble telescope captured an image of a supernova occurrence.
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Cataclysmic Brightness

A supernova is noted for its intense brightness, outshining entire galaxies for a short time.

Illustration for Cataclysmic Brightness
The supernova was so bright that it could be seen from Earth with the naked eye.
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Explosive End

Supernova implies a violent, destructive ending of a star, but it's a natural part of the universe.

Illustration for Explosive End
Astronomers believe our sun will not end as a supernova.
Visual representation of the word "Supernova"

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