APOD: 2026 October 7 – Supernova Remnant Pa 30
APOD Science APOD APOD: 2026 October 7 –… Today’s APOD Archive Submissions Index Search Calendar RSS Education About Discuss APOD Astronomy Picture of the Day Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer. Supernova Remnant Pa […]
On October 7, 2026, the Astronomy Picture of the Day showcased the Supernova Remnant Pa 30, captured by the Gemini North Telescope in Hawai’i. This image reveals the remains of an ancient supernova explosion, possibly originating from an old supernova that appeared in the sky in 1181 according to historical records from China, Japan, and Arabic astronomers.
This bright new point of light is believed to have been the result of a supernova, known as a Type Iax supernova, caused by the merger of two white dwarfs. The central star in the image is extremely hot and generates a strong wind, potentially forming radial filaments. The filaments are adorned with pearl-like knots that span 4 light-days in diameter.
The mystery of how this supernova created such an extraordinary nebula remains an 845-year-old enigma that continues to pique the interest of astronomers.
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- APOD: 2026 October 7 – Supernova Remnant Pa 30 science.nasa.gov
