SN 1996cr: Confirmation of a luminous type IIn supernova in the circinus galaxy

F. E. Bauer, S. Smartt, S. Immler, W. N. Brandt, K. W. Weiler

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

We have recently confirmed SN 1996cr as a late-time type IIn supernova (SN) via VLT spectroscopy and isolated its explosion date to ∼1yr using archival optical imaging. We briefly touch upon here the wealth of optical, X-ray, and radio archival observations available for this enigmatic source. Due to its relative proximity (3.8±0.6Mpc), SN 1996cr ranks among the brightest X-ray and radio SNe ever detected and, as such, may offer powerful insights into the structure and composition of type IIn SNe. We also find that SN 1996cr is matched to GRB 4B 960202 at a 2-3σ confidence level, making it perhaps the third GRB to be significantly associated with a type II SN. We speculate on whether SN 1996cr could be an off-axis or "failed" GRB.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationSUPERNOVA 1987A
Subtitle of host publication20 YEARS AFTER: Supernovae and Gamma-Ray Bursters
Pages427-429
Number of pages3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2007
EventSUPERNOVA 1987A: 20 YEARS AFTER: Supernovae and Gamma-Ray Bursters - Aspen, CO, United States
Duration: Feb 19 2007Feb 23 2007

Publication series

NameAIP Conference Proceedings
Volume937
ISSN (Print)0094-243X
ISSN (Electronic)1551-7616

Other

OtherSUPERNOVA 1987A: 20 YEARS AFTER: Supernovae and Gamma-Ray Bursters
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAspen, CO
Period2/19/072/23/07

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • General Physics and Astronomy

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