How to hold a dead star in your hand (Synopsis) [Starts With A Bang]

“When a star goes supernova, the explosion emits enough light to overshadow an entire solar system, even a galaxy. Such explosions can set off the creation of new stars. In its own way, it was not unlike being born.” -Todd Nelsen

The vast majority of elements beyond hydrogen found on Earth were created inside a massive star and blown back into the interstellar medium in a catastrophic supernova explosion. In a certain way, everything you’ve ever held in your hand — including another person’s hand — is you holding a dead star.

But thanks to the Chandra X-ray Observatory and more than 13 years of observations of an expanding, young supernova remnant, we’re able to construct a true 3D model of one of the galaxy’s youngest dead stars. Thanks to 3D printing, you can now literally hold a dead star in your hand.

New Starts With A Bang contributor Kim Kowal Arcand has the story over on Forbes!