A supernova is a large stellar explosion that takes place as a conclusion to the end of a star's life.
There are 2 types of supernova:
- The first type of supernova happens in binary star systems (two stars that orbit the same point) when one of the stars accumulates matter from its neighbor until a nuclear reaction starts.
- The second type of supernova takes place at the end of a single star’s lifetime. The star runs out of nuclear fuel and collapses under its own gravity.