A supernova begins with the birth of a massive star. Massive stars are those with a mass at least 10 times that of our Sun. These stars are born in large clouds of gas and dust called nebulae.

2. Nuclear fusion

As a massive star forms, it begins to fuse hydrogen atoms into helium in its core. This process releases enormous amounts of energy, which causes the star to shine brightly.

3. Core collapse

As the star continues to burn hydrogen, it builds up a core of helium. When the core becomes massive enough, it can no longer support its own weight. The core begins to collapse under its own gravity.

4. Supernova explosion

The collapse of the core triggers a supernova explosion. This explosion is so powerful that it can outshine an entire galaxy. The explosion also sends shock waves through the star, which cause the outer layers of the star to be blown off into space.

5. Neutron star or black hole

The core of the star is crushed down to an extremely dense object called a neutron star. If the core is massive enough, it may even collapse into a black hole.

6. Supernova remnant

The supernova explosion leaves behind a supernova remnant. This remnant is a cloud of expanding debris that contains heavy elements such as iron and gold. Supernova remnants are important because they help to distribute heavy elements throughout the universe.