Publications by authors named "Edward P J van den Heuvel"
Article Synopsis
- Supernova SN 2006gy in the galaxy NGC 1260 is the brightest supernova ever recorded, suggesting its progenitor was an extremely massive star (>100 solar masses).
- However, the presence of hydrogen in the supernova's spectrum challenges the idea that it came from a single massive star, as those are expected to lose their hydrogen before exploding.
- Instead, the researchers propose that SN 2006gy could be the result of two massive stars merging, and predict that a dense cluster of massive stars will become visible at the explosion site once the supernova fades.
Article Synopsis
- - Over the last five years, evidence has increased that long-duration gamma-ray bursts (GRBs), the brightest astronomical explosions, are linked to the collapse of massive stars.
- - Initial hints included a connection with a supernova and were later supported by GRBs found in massive star formation areas and spectral evidence of newly formed elements.
- - New findings show a hypernova occurring just days before a GRB, reinforcing the theory that core-collapse events can lead to these GRBs, aligning with the 'collapsar' model.
