Record-Breaking 'B.O.A.T' GRB: A Standard Supernova's Surprising Secrets
April 15, 2024![Record-Breaking 'B.O.A.T' GRB: A Standard Supernova's Surprising Secrets](https://cdn.brief.news/cdn-cgi/image/fit=contain,width=768/images/stories/16b5caaf951b9fed59f5b1c2592bc805477096aa0d04529edbf32d09bde347a8a58f5a7429b0c21ca1d00e9b5c6ab177737ab8f734708250e2a17f0ad7ac479f.jpg)
In October 2022, the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory and the Fermi Gamma-Ray Space Telescope detected the brightest gamma-ray burst (GRB) ever observed, named 'B.O.A.T: Brightest Of All Time.'
The GRB, lasting seven minutes and visible for longer, was the result of a collapsing massive star, marking the birth of a black hole.
The associated supernova, GRB 221009A, defied expectations by being less energetic and lacking heavy elements, challenging current supernova theories.
The host galaxy's low metallicity and star-forming activity pose new questions about cosmic origins and astrophysical models.
Subsequent analysis downgraded the event to a standard gamma-ray explosion, contrary to initial beliefs about its extraordinary brightness.
The James Webb Space Telescope confirmed the supernova's standard nature, identifying only lighter elements like calcium and oxygen, with no heavier elements detected.
Although the BOAT's intensity blinded instruments and complicated measurements, it remains a key focus of ongoing astronomical research.
Summary based on 4 sources
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TechSpot • Apr 15, 2024
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