Why is Supernova 1987A particularly important to astronomers?
A) It occurred only a few dozen light-years from Earth.
B) It provided the first observational evidence that supernovae actually occur.
C) It provided the first evidence that neutron stars exist.
D) It was the first supernova detected in nearly 400 years.
E) It was the nearest supernova detected in nearly 400 years.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Supernova 1987A is particularly important to astronomers because it was the nearest supernova detected in nearly 400 years. This allowed astronomers to study the explosion in unprecedented detail, and make significant advances in our understanding of supernovae and their role in the universe.

Why Is Supernova 1987A Particularly Important to Astronomers