Superkilonova: A new frontier in Astrophysics

A new study has pointed to the possible discovery of a Superkilonova- opening a new frontier in astrophysics. Read here to learn more about the cosmic phenomenon.

A recent study by an international research team, including scientists from IIT Bombay and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, has reported the possible discovery of a superkilonova, a rare and exceptionally powerful cosmic explosion.

If confirmed, this would mark a major breakthrough in astrophysics by revealing a new class of high-energy astronomical events and deepening our understanding of stellar evolution, gravitational waves, and the cosmic origin of heavy elements.

What is a Kilonova?

A kilonova is a transient astronomical event that occurs when two neutron stars merge, or when a neutron star merges with a black hole.

Key Features of a Kilonova:

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• During the collision, neutron-rich matter is violently ejected into space.
• This ejecta undergoes rapid neutron capture (r-process nucleosynthesis).
• Heavy elements such as gold, platinum, and neodymium are formed.
• The radioactive decay of these freshly formed elements produces:
  • Optical emissions
  • Infrared radiation
• Kilonovae are typically:
  • Short-lived (days to weeks)
  • Much brighter than novae, but dimmer than supernovae

The first confirmed kilonova was observed in 2017 (GW170817), alongside gravitational waves detected by LIGO–Virgo.

What is a Superkilonova?

A superkilonova is a more complex and energetic cosmic event that combines features of both a supernova and a kilonova.

How a Superkilonova Occurs:

1. A massive star undergoes a supernova explosion, forming two neutron stars (instead of a neutron star and a black hole).
2. These neutron stars remain gravitationally bound in a binary system.
3. Over time, they spiral inward due to energy loss via gravitational waves.
4. Their eventual merger produces a kilonova.

Thus, a superkilonova exhibits:

• Initial supernova signatures
• Followed by kilonova emissions

Distinctive Features of a Superkilonova

Studies suggest that superkilonovae:

• Last longer than standard kilonovae
• Produce stronger electromagnetic radiation
• Emit intense gravitational waves
• They are brighter due to multiple energy inputs

Scientific Significance of the Discovery

1. Stellar Evolution and Binary Systems

• Confirms a rare evolutionary pathway where a single supernova leads to two neutron stars
• Enhances understanding of massive star collapse and binary formation

2. Origin of Heavy Elements

• Strengthens evidence that cosmic explosions are major factories of heavy elements
• Helps explain the abundance patterns of gold and platinum in the universe

3. Gravitational Wave Astronomy

• Superkilonovae are expected to be powerful multi-messenger events
• Provide simultaneous data from:
  • Gravitational waves
  • Optical and infrared telescopes
• Improve calibration of gravitational wave detectors like LIGO, Virgo, and KAGRA

4. Expansion of Transient Astronomy

• Adds a new category to cosmic transient phenomena
• Helps astronomers refine the classification of luminous explosions previously misidentified as supernovae

Why the Discovery is Still Tentative

• Superkilonovae remain observationally emerging, not yet firmly established
• Limited number of confirmed events
• Overlapping signals with rare supernova types make identification challenging
• Requires:
  • Long-term multi-wavelength observations
  • Gravitational wave corroboration

Future missions and observatories such as the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), and next-generation gravitational wave detectors will be crucial for confirmation.

Difference between Nova, Supernova, Kilonova, and Superkilonova

Conclusion

The possible discovery of a superkilonova represents a major leap in our understanding of the universe’s most extreme events. By bridging supernova physics, neutron star mergers, and gravitational wave astronomy, it opens a new window into stellar death, element formation, and cosmic evolution.

While further confirmation is needed, the findings underscore the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of modern astrophysics, and India’s rising presence in this global scientific endeavour.

Prelims Practice Questions

Q. Which of the following best describes a nova?

1. Complete destruction of a massive star
2. Thermonuclear explosion on the surface of a white dwarf in a binary system
3. Merger of two neutron stars producing heavy elements
4. Collapse of a star’s iron core

Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1 and 4 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 3 and 4 only

Q. Consider the following statements about a supernova:

1. It may occur due to the core collapse of a massive star.
2. It can result from thermonuclear disruption of a white dwarf.
3. It is the primary source of gold and platinum in the universe.

Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Q. Kilonovae are best associated with which of the following phenomena?

(a) Solar flares and coronal mass ejections
(b) Collapse of red supergiant stars
(c) Mergers of neutron stars producing gravitational waves
(d) Accretion-induced collapse of white dwarfs

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• Life cycle of a star
• GRAPES-3 Experiment
• Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Observatory