This supernova (the result of an exploding star) was first observed by Chinese and Japanese astronomers in the year 1181. That’s why it is designated SN1181. It is located about 8,000 light years from the earth in the constellation of Cassiopeia. It is also now known as the Dandelion Supernova, because of the filaments, now detectable, that resemble the fine hairlike material that enables wind-aided dispersal of the dandelion seed.

(jmishlove@newthinkingallowed.com)