NASA and ESA’s Hubble Space Telescope has provided a remarkable view of the galaxy LEDA 857074, located in the constellation Eridanus. This barred spiral galaxy, notable for its partially broken spiral arms, has recently been in the spotlight due to the supernova SN 2022ADQZ, which is brightly illuminating the right side of the galaxy’s bar.
Supernova SN 2022ADQZ is the result of a massive star’s explosive end. As such a star exhausts its hydrogen fuel, it fuses heavier elements, leading to a decrease in the outward radiation pressure that counteracts gravitational collapse. This core collapse triggers a supernova explosion, with the remnant core potentially becoming a neutron star or collapsing further into a black hole.
Detected by an automated survey in late 2022, SN 2022ADQZ prompted astronomers to observe its host galaxy with Hubble in early 2023. Hubble’s advanced optics allow it to separate the supernova’s light from that of its host galaxy, providing detailed measurements that are often challenging for ground-based telescopes to achieve.
While thousands of supernovae are discovered annually, identifying one in any given galaxy among the millions cataloged is rare. The observation of SN 2022ADQZ has allowed LEDA 857074 to join the ranks of celestial objects captured in Hubble’s extensive archive, highlighting the significance of this cosmic event.
