New Observations of Supernova 1987A Uncover Unique Structures using NIRCam on James Webb Space Telescope

KOMPAS.com – Not long ago, NASA scientists began research on one of the most iconic supernovae discovered in February 1987.

Supernova 1987A (SN 1987A) is a star explosion located 168,000 light years away in the Large Magellanic Cloud.

Reporting from Phys, Friday (1/9/2023), the supernova has long been the target of quite intense observations, especially at wavelengths ranging from emitted gamma rays to radio waves for nearly 40 years.

This time, new observations made by NASA scientists using the NIRCam (Near Infrared Camera) on the James Webb Space Telescope have revealed important clues.

The new observations with more advanced telescopes provide important clues in understanding how supernovae develop over time.

Also read: Astronomers predict this farthest supernova will be seen again in 2037

The unique structure of supernova 1987A

This photo of supernova 1987A by the James Webb telescope shows a central structure, which was previously unknown. The unique structure is similar to a keyhole.

This central part is filled with clumps of gas and dust ejected by the supernova explosion.

The researchers explain that the dust at the center of this iconic supernova is so dense that even near-infrared light detected by the Webb telescope cannot penetrate, forming a dark “hole” in the center that looks like the keyhole.

In addition, their analysis also revealed the presence of a bright equatorial ring surrounding the inner keyhole, which forms a band around the inner ring that connects the two hourglass-shaped arms of the outer ring.

The equatorial rings, which were formed from material ejected tens of thousands of years before the supernova explosion, are composed of bright hot spots that appear when shock waves hit the rings.

The new observations show that the spots are also found on the outer ring, with a diffuse glow. Researchers say, this is a location where the supernova shock hit more material outside the ring.

Also read: This Supernova Explosion Shines 2 Times Brighter in the Universe

While these structures have previously been observed to varying degrees by NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope and the Chandra X-ray Observatory, the sensitivity and spatial resolution of the James Webb Telescope are unmatched.

The technology embedded in the Webb telescope has also managed to reveal details of new features in the most iconic supernova remnant, namely a structure resembling a small crescent moon.

The supernova’s unique structure is part of the outermost layer of gas that comes out of the supernova explosion.

Various space telescopes have been observing this supernova for decades since its discovery, but there are still some mysteries that have not been solved. Especially about a neutron star that should form after a supernova explosion.

In order to learn more about this supernova, the James Webb telescope will continue to observe SN 1987A from time to time.

The James Webb Space Telescope will also continue to collaborate with the Hubble, Chandra and other observatories to provide new insights into the past and future of this legendary supernova.

Also read: What is a Supernova and How Does It Happen? It’s a Science Explanation

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2023-09-03 02:00:00
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