Breaking!: New SuperNova Spotted in M101 Galaxy, Visible Through Amatuer Telescopes

Table of Contents

In an awe-inspiring display of cosmic prowess, the M101 Galaxy lights up as a supernova, discovered by the esteemed amateur astronomer, Koichi Itagaki, offers an extraordinary spectacle visible even through amateur telescopes.

Updated May 20, 2023 | 02:33 PM IST

New SuperNova Spotted in M101 Galaxy, Visible Through Amatuer Telescopes

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

New supernova SN 2023ixf discovered by amateur astronomer Koichi Itagaki in the M101 Galaxy!”
The M101 Galaxy illuminates the night sky with a supernova, visible even through amateur telescopes.
Koichi Itagaki continues his streak of astronomical discoveries with the spotting of a new supernova.

In a dazzling display of cosmic fireworks, a new supernova has been spotted in the M101 Galaxy , causing stargazers worldwide to turn their telescopes towards the night sky. The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has designated this celestial marvel as SN 2023ixf .

Twitterati Can’t Stay Calm

The Stargazing Samurai: Koichi Itagaki

The man behind this discovery is none other than the famed Japanese amateur astronomer Koichi Itagaki, known for his numerous past discoveries. This time, from his personal observatory in Yamagata, Japan, he has managed to spot a supernova in the M101 Galaxy. He is a member of the Variable Star Observers League in Japan (VSOLJ) and the International Astronomical Union’s (IAU) Minor Planet Center. Itagaki’s passion and dedication to the cosmos have led him to contribute significantly to the field of astronomy , continually reminding us that space is not just for professional scientists – amateurs can make a big bang too!

Source: Grant Tremblay // Twitter

A Closer Look at M101 Galaxy

The M101 Galaxy, also known as the Pinwheel Galaxy , is located in the Ursa Major constellation about 21 million light-years from Earth. This spiral galaxy is a favorite amongst astronomers due to its size, brightness, and the frequency of supernovae occurring within it. The galaxy is about 170,000 light-years across and contains about 100 billion stars. As our newly discovered supernova lights up the M101 Galaxy, even amateur astronomers with modest telescopes can partake in the cosmic spectacle.

SN 2023ixf Discovery Certificate

The Cosmic Coordinates

The supernova is located at coordinates RA = 14:03:38.580 (210.91075) DEC = +54:18:42.10 (54.311694), as per the J2000 reference frame. The exact time of discovery was logged as 2023-05-19 17:27:15.000 (JD=2460084.2272569). SN 2023ixf is currently about 18th magnitude, which is bright enough to be seen through amateur telescopes. It is located in the constellation Ursa Major, about 2 degrees north of the star Alkaid. The supernova is expected to peak at about 15th magnitude in the next few weeks.

Supernovae

Supernovae are explosions of massive stars. They are among the brightest events in the universe and can be seen even from billions of light-years away. Supernovae play an important role in the evolution of galaxies by enriching the interstellar medium with heavy elements.

The discovery of SN 2023ixf is an exciting event for amateur astronomers. It is a rare opportunity to see a supernova with the naked eye. The supernova is also a valuable research opportunity for astronomers. By studying SN 2023ixf, they can learn more about the evolution of massive stars and the role of supernovae in the universe.

So, fellow stargazers, gear up and turn your telescopes towards the M101 Galaxy. Don’t miss this chance to witness a spectacular cosmic event that reminds us of the wonders the universe holds!