| 7 | | Abstract: ...You were born. Some of the most violent and energetic events in the Universe are the explosions of stars. Sometimes these explosions only shed layers from the star; in the most energetic events, the explosions completely disrupt the star and can be seen across the Universe. As a result, we use these powerful beacons to probe the evolution of the Cosmos. While these explosions are the most destructive events in the Universe, they are also responsible for creating some of the most interesting objects and phenomena. They herald the birth of neutron stars, black holes, normal stars, and most of the elements in the Universe, including the building blocks of our planetary system...our planet...and you. |
| | 7 | Abstract: Occasionally, a star violently explodes in one of the most destructive events in the Universe. Because of their destructive power, these explosions are also Nature's crucible of creation. They herald the birth of neutron stars and black holes, trigger further star formation, and produce most of the elements in the Universe. Literally, they produce the building blocks of our planetary system...our planet...and you. |
