Astronomers Capture First Direct Image of Double-Detonation Supernova Remnant
LARGE MAGELLANIC CLOUD, JUL 3 – Astronomers used the Very Large Telescope to confirm a double-detonation in a white dwarf star, supporting theories on Type Ia supernovae and their role in cosmic expansion.
- In July 2025, astronomers published in Nature Astronomy the first visual evidence of a double-detonation supernova in the supernova remnant SNR 0509-67.5 in the Large Magellanic Cloud.
- Scientists discovered the first visual evidence of a double-detonation supernova in SNR 0509-67.5, confirming long-standing suspicions due to the predicted calcium fingerprint.
- Using ESO’s VLT MUSE instrument, scientists identified two concentric calcium rings in supernova remnant SNR 0509-67.5, confirming a double explosion, as published in Nature Astronomy.
- This discovery shows white dwarfs can explode early, refining Type Ia supernova use for measuring universe expansion.
- In future models, this discovery may revise stellar evolution theories and help resolve the Hubble constant tension impacting cosmological measurements.
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The method will help to reconstruct the evolution of the Milky Way (ANSA)
Star Explodes Twice: Astronomers Capture Stunning Supernova Remains
Astronomers have captured the first visual evidence of a star exploding twice—an extraordinary cosmic event called a “double detonation.” Using the Very Large Telescope, scientists studied the colorful remains of supernova SNR 0509-67.5 and found clear signs that the star didn’t just explode once, but went off in two powerful bursts. This rare type of [...]
Astronomers refer to the explosion of a star as supernovas. In some supernovas, it doesn't just pop once, but twice, as an international research team has shown for the first time.
Spectacular event in doubles: Some supernovae don't only hit once. This is the first time that remains of a star exploded 400 years ago. The scientists are thrilled.
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