Type Ien supernova

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Light curves published in journal Nature by Schulze et al. (2025) of SN 2021yfj, possibly the first supernova of its type. SN2021yfjLightCurve.png
Light curves published in journal Nature by Schulze et al. (2025) of SN 2021yfj, possibly the first supernova of its type.

A Type Ien supernova (Type len or len) is a proposed type of supernova event. It is characterized by having spectra that are dominated by elements such as ionized silicon, sulphur and argon while at the same time lacking prominent features from elements such as carbon, oxygen, helium and hydrogen. [1]

This type of supernova was made by the discovery of SN 2021yfj (and first and currently only SN of this type) in 2021 who's emission lines were unique compared to other supernova. It also means that a placeholder intermediate type of supernova named SN Idn could exist and would have its spectra be dominated by either oxygen, neon or magnesium. [1]

References

  1. 1 2 Gal-Yam, A.; Yaron, O.; Schulze, S. (September 2024). "Introducing a new supernova classification type: SN Ien". Transient Name Server AstroNote. 239: 1. Bibcode:2024TNSAN.239....1G.