Supernova search reveals new molecules

Previously undetected molecules from a supernova have been discovered by researchers at Cardiff University.

Accompanying previously detected compounds – such as carbon monoxide and silicon oxide – the researchers, to their surprise, observed formylium and sulphur monoxide. Until this find, scientists assumed supernovae explosions would completely destroy any molecules and dust that may have been present.

Dr Mikako Matsuura, from Cardiff University and lead author of the study in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, said: “This is the first time that we've found these species of molecules within supernovae, which questions our long held assumptions that these explosions destroy all molecules and dust that are present within a star. Our results have shown that as the leftover gas from a supernova begins to cool down to below 200°C, the many heavy elements that are synthesised can begin to harbour rich molecules, creating a dust factory.”

The researchers used the Atacama Large Millimetre/submillimetre Array (ALMA) to investigate the supernova. By using millimetre electromagnetic wavelengths, researchers were able to look through dust and gas to discover the molecules. The molecules were found in the aftermath of Supernova 1987A, located 163,000 light years away from Earth.

Accompanying this research, another group of scientists have used ALMA’s data to create the first 3D model of Supernova 1987A, which they hope will reveal important insights into the original star itself. The model will also explain how supernovae form the basic building blocks of planets. This research is published in Solar and Stellar Astrophysics.

The next steps will involve using ALMA to find out how abundant formylium and sulphur monoxide are, as well as investigating if there are yet more undiscovered molecules