AFM’s Tavi Greiner right smack dab in the middle of one of this year’s major astronomy discoveries – supernova PTF 11kly, spotted in the near-by Pinwheel Galaxy (M101).
It’s the closest supernova of its type since 1986, and astronomers from around the Earth – and in space – are racing to see it. The supernova was first spotted by the Palomar Transient Factory survey, and Tavi has been credited by the IAU as providing the first confirmation. The supernova (given the temporary name PTF 11kly) is of the type Ia, a critical “standard candle” tool used by astronomers to measure the size and expansion of the Universe.
Also on today’s Event^Horizon: Hurricane Irene, Global Warming, Diamond Planet Discovered, & A Black Hole Devours a Star!
Tonight’s Event^Horizon is hosted by Rob Keown and Michael Foerster, joined by our newest celebrity – Mighty Supernova Hunter Tavi Greiner! (Our regular Event^Horizon hosts, Nick Evetts and Marty Kunz, are expected to return next week.)
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