Open AccessAfterglows from the largest explosions in the universe
Author(s) -
D. H. Hartmann
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
proceedings of the national academy of sciences of the united states of america
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1091-6490
pISSN - 0027-8424
DOI - 10.1073/pnas.96.9.4752
Subject(s) - hypernova , physics , supernova , astronomy , universe , cosmic cancer database , astrophysics , gamma ray burst , photometry (optics) , theoretical physics , stars
The distinction of “largest explosions in the universe” has been bestowed on cosmic gamma-ray bursts. Their afterglows are brighter than supernovae and therefore are called hypernovae. Photometry and spectroscopy of these afterglows have provided major breakthroughs in our understanding of this mysterious phenomenon.