Two years with supernova SN 2023ixf in the Messier 101: 2nd anniversary image – 25 May 2025
We celebrate the 2nd anniversary of supernova 2023ixf in Messier 101 since its explosion on 19 May 2023. Happy Birthday, SN 2023ixf!
SN 2023ixf in the Messier 101, 2nd anniversary image: 25 May 2025.
The image above comes from the average of 13, 300-second, unguided exposures, unfiltered, remotely taken with the the Celestron C14+Paramount ME+SBIG ST10-XME robotic unit available as part of the Virtual Telescope Project in Manciano, Italy. The supernova is indicated by an arrow in the upper right insert.
We estimated SN 2023ixf as bright as mag. 20.3 (R-mags for the reference stars from the Gaia DR2 star catalogue). On May 2023, SN 2023ixf peaked at mag. 10.8, so at that time it was 6500 times brighter than now.
Two years after its dramatic appearance, supernova 2023ixf in the “Pinwheel Galaxy” (aka Messier 101) remains faintly visible, as captured in this image by the Virtual Telescope Project. When it exploded in May 2023, SN 2023ixf became one of the brightest and most observed supernovae in recent years, offering a rare opportunity to witness the death of a massive star in real time. Now, as its light slowly fades, it still provides valuable insights into the aftermath of stellar explosions.
Located about 21 million light-years from Earth, M 101 offers a stunning backdrop for this cosmic event. This image is a quiet yet powerful reminder of the dynamic processes that shape galaxies and the universe itself.
We plan further follow up in the next months.
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