A Cosmic Marvel Unveiled

Get ready to be amazed! We’ve captured another breathtaking image of supernova SN 2024abfl, located in the mesmerizing barred spiral galaxy NGC 2146. This stunning shot comes just three months after our last visit, and it's nothing short of spectacular!

Capturing the Beauty of the Cosmos

The image above is the result of averaging 22 unguided, 120-second exposures—completely unfiltered! These remarkable photos were taken remotely using our high-tech robotic unit, a PlaneWave 17” telescope combined with a Paramount MEII mount and an SBIG STL-6303E camera, all part of the renowned Virtual Telescope Project in Manciano, Italy. Look closely, and you can spot the supernova, marked by an arrow in the upper right insertion.

A Bright Beacon in the Darkness

Currently, SN 2024abfl shines with a brightness of magnitude 18.5, based on reference stars from the Gaia DR2 catalog. Discovered on November 15, 2024, this type II supernova is a dazzling reminder of the universe's explosive beauty.

NGC 2146: A Galaxy of Wonders

The supernova is nestled within the enchanting NGC 2146, a barred spiral galaxy that lies approximately 45 million light-years away from Earth. This galaxy's unique shape is the result of a gravitational interaction with another galaxy that took place tens of millions of years ago. Such cosmic collisions have sparked an impressive rate of star formation, making NGC 2146 a prime example of a starburst galaxy.

Join Us in Exploring the Universe!

This captivating image showcases the dual beauty of supernova SN 2024abfl and its host galaxy, NGC 2146. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our exploration of the universe's most awe-inspiring phenomena!