Image for SN 1994I

SN 1994I

SN 1994I was a supernova that occurred in the galaxy M51 in 1994. It was classified as a Type Ic supernova, meaning it resulted from the explosion of a massive star that had lost its outer layers of hydrogen and helium before collapsing. This explosion released an enormous amount of energy, outshining entire galaxies for a short time. Studying SN 1994I helps astronomers understand how massive stars end their lives and the processes leading to such energetic events, providing insight into stellar evolution and the enrichment of the universe with heavier elements.