Chandra Release - May 11, 2000

Visual Description: Supernova 1987A

This is an X-ray image of supernova (SN) 1987A located in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way. The image captures the aftermath of a supernova explosion that occurred on February 23, 1987, making it one of the most well-observed and studied supernovae in history. The image shows a dark empty spot in the center, surrounded by bright red-orange and yellow hues. This colorful appearance is due to the energy released from the supernova remnant, which emits high-energy radiation in various wavelengths, including visible light and X-rays. The overall shape of the image is circular and hollow though irregular, like a donut has gotten smooshed on the upper right, and reflecting the spherical nature of the supernova explosion.