Double Cosmic Explosion (IMAGE)

California Institute of Technology

Double Cosmic Explosion

Caption

This artist's concepts shows a hypothesized event known as a superkilonova. A massive star explodes in a supernova (left), which generates elements like carbon and iron. In the aftermath, two neutron stars are born (middle), at least one of which is believed to be less massive than our Sun. The neutron stars spiral together, sending gravitational waves rippling through the cosmos, before merging in a dramatic kilonova (right). Kilonovae seed the universe with the heaviest elements, such as gold at platinum, which glow with red light. 

 

Credit

Caltech/K. Miller and R. Hurt (IPAC)

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License

CC BY

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