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Astronomers Uncover Unique 'Zombie Star' in Ancient Supernova Remnant

The Pa 30 nebula, linked to the 1181 supernova, reveals an unusual white dwarf remnant with intriguing properties.

  • The supernova SN 1181, observed in 1181 AD, was recently identified as a Type Iax supernova, leaving behind a rare 'zombie star.'
  • Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to study the Pa 30 nebula, uncovering its unique filamentary structure resembling a dandelion.
  • The nebula's filaments are expanding ballistically at about 1,000 kilometers per second, indicating they have not slowed since the explosion.
  • The explosion appears to have been asymmetrical, contributing to the nebula's irregular morphology and unusual distribution of elements.
  • The findings prompt new questions about the nature of supernovae and their remnants, challenging astronomers to explore further.
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