A newly discovered supernova, SN 2023ixf, can be observed online and for free in real time.
The Virtual Telescope Project will live stream the cosmic explosion as it develops using its robotic telescopes in Rome, Italy.
The online event will start at 6:30 p.m. EDT (2230 GMT) on Friday, May 26, but it may be delayed or cancelled due to poor weather conditions.
SN 2023ixf is one of the largest and brightest supernovae seen in the past decade.
The supernova was initially spotted by Koichi Itagaki from Yamagata, Japan, and its discovery was confirmed by the Zwicky Transient Facility telescopes in California.
SN 2023ixf is located in the galaxy Messier 101 (Pinwheel Galaxy) and can be observed as a small speck of light even with backyard telescopes.
The supernova's proximity and brightening nature make it a popular target for amateur astronomers.
The Virtual Telescope Project founder, Gianluca Masi, described SN 2023ixf as exceptional due to its visibility through small telescopes and its location in the beautiful galaxy Messier 101.
The Hubble Space Telescope is also studying the supernova.
SN 2023ixf will remain visible in the Pinwheel Galaxy for the next few months before gradually fading away.