Why Are Some Exploding Stars Fleeing Their Galaxies?

Space





Photo credit:

Elliptical galaxy with wispy lanes – the sign of a recent galaxy merger. A supernova was found outside this galaxy. NASA, ESA, and Ryan Foley.

Out in the empty void of space is a lonely traveler. An exploding star zips through the blackness of the universe at breakneck speed, thousands of light-years away from the nearest galaxy. Even more strangely, this star has exploded billions of years prematurely. Thirteen of these rogue supernovas have been spotted outside of their galaxies – a sight that has perplexed scientists.