Observing My First Supernova
An image comparison of the Pinwheel Galaxy between June 2021 and May 2023. You can see the supernova SN2023ixf.
Introduction
A supernova occurs when a star collapses and explodes upon itself, creating a brilliant burst of light. In 2023, I was able to observe my first supernova in the Pinwheel Galaxy (Messier 101) through my 8” newtonian telescope. Below are my chronicled notes and sketches from this unique and special observation.
What Legacy Will You Leave?
James reminds us that our lives are temporary, like a mist. Similar to what I observed with Supernova 2023ixf, it is one brief and temporary star that outshines the galaxy.
The world we live in is dark. Our time on earth is short, maybe 70 or 80 years. So how will you spend this time here on Earth? Will your life leave a glorious shout, like a supernova, as you live in a way where people see Christ in you? Or will you be like any other star in the galaxy, living life selfishly and without meaning.
The choice is yours.
From the Journal
First Observation: 5/28/2023
Location: Bortle 4 (my front yard)
Lunar Phase: 66% full moon
Temperature: 59ºF
Transparency & Seeing: Poor, humid night
Equipment: Apetura AD8, 20mm eyepiece
SN 2023ixf is currently visible in the Pinwheel Galaxy at -10.8. Trying to catch sight since this is the first clear night without thunderstorms or smoke.
The Pinwheel Galaxy @ 10:40. The supernova is extremely difficult to pick up. It is 20,000,000 light years away, I can barely make out the glow of the galaxy. Fighting the moon and the thin passing clouds makes it difficult. LORD, thank You for letting me catch it tonight. Pinwheel galaxy is special to me because it was the first DSO I photographed with the star tracker. Thank You for this window of opportunity. Hopefully I can see it in a better situation, in June.
Second Observation: 6/19/2023
Location: Bortle 2 (Silver Tip, WY)
Lunar Phase: 03% full moon
Temperature: 65ºF
Transparency & Seeing: Good
Equipment: Apetura AD8, 15mm eyepiece
Supernova 2023ixf dropped from -10.8 to -11.5, tonight will probably be the last night for me to see it.
M101 - Pinwheel Galaxy with SN 2023ixf. The supernova is a little difficult to see. However, you could see it. It’s pretty, but fading. I barely could make light out from NGC 5461 in the Pinwheel’s arm, near the SN. 11:40 PM.