A supernova can briefly outshine its entire host galaxy — billions of stars. The energy released in that moment exceeds what the Sun will produce over its entire 10-billion-year lifetime. About 99% of the energy is carried away by neutrinos, ghostly particles that barely interact with matter. The visible light is just a tiny fraction of the total output.

Supernovae are essential to life. Elements heavier than iron — gold, platinum, uranium — can only form in the extreme conditions of a supernova explosion or neutron star merger. Every atom of gold in your jewelry was forged in a dying star.