Supernova explosion. 3D supercomputer simulation of a supernova expanding 9158 seconds after ignition. The model represents a supernova measuring arou

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Supernova explosion. 3D supercomputer simulation of a supernova expanding 9158 seconds after ignition. The model represents a supernova measuring around 21 million kilometres in diameter, with jets of matter extending outwards at the top and bottom of the main body. Colours represent chemical composition: blue for nickel, red for oxygen, green for carbon and pink for a mixture of nickel and oxygen. Supernovae occur when a massive star has run out of nuclear fuel and its core collapses to form a neutron star. The collapsed core triggers a shock wave that powers the supernova explosion.

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Size: 4205px × 4205px
Photo credit: © HAMMER, JANKA, MULLER & RAMPP/MAX PLANCK INSTITUTE FOR ASTROPHYSICS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: astronomical, astronomy, astrophysical, astrophysics, computer, expanding, exploding, simulation, space, star, supernova