SN 185
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RCW 86, probable remnant of SN 185 |
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| Observation data (Epoch J2000) |
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|---|---|---|
| Supernova type | Type Ia? | |
| Remnant type | Shell | |
| Host Galaxy | Milky Way | |
| Constellation | Circinus and Centaurus | |
| Right ascension | 14h 43m | |
| Declination | −62° 30′ | |
| Galactic coordinates |
G315.4−2.3 | |
| Discovery Date | December 7, 185 | |
| Peak magnitude (V) | −8? | |
| Physical characteristics | ||
| Progenitor | ? | |
| Progenitor type | ? | |
| Colour (B-V) | ? | |
| Notable features | Ancient records of SN 185 may be the earliest written description of a supernova. |
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SN 185 was a supernova which appeared in the year 185, near Alpha Centauri, between the constellations Circinus and Centaurus. This "guest star" was observed by Chinese astronomers in the Houhanshu (History of the Later Han Dynasty),[1] and may have been recorded in Roman literature.[2] It remained visible in the night sky for eight months. This is believed to have been the first supernova recorded by humankind.
The gaseous shell RCW 86 is suspected as being the supernova remnant of this event. Recent X-ray studies of this object show a good match for the expected age.[3]
[edit] References
- ^ Fu-Yuan Zhao, R. G. Strom, Shi-Yang Jiang (2006). "The Guest Star of AD185 Must Have Been a Supernova". Chinese Journal of Astronomy and Astrophysics 6 (5): 635-640.
- ^ Stothers, Richard (1977). "Is the Supernova of CE 185 Recorded in Ancient Roman Literature". Isis 68 (3): 443-447. Retrieved on 2006-09-24.
- ^ "New evidence links stellar remains to oldest recorded supernova", ESA News, 2006-09-18. Retrieved on 2006-05-24.
