Thanks to NASA's Swift satellite, astronomers have seen a star actually blow up.
On April 25, NASA’s Swift satellite picked up a record-setting flare from a star known as EV Lacertae.
In just the past six weeks, two supernovae have flared up in an obscure galaxy in the constellation Hercules.
Scientists recently made a discovery that forced them to re-think their theories on the most powerful explosions in the cosmos - gamma ray bursts.
03.20.08 - - A powerful stellar explosion detected March 19 by NASA's Swift satellite has shattered the record for the most distant object that could be seen with the naked eye.
05.11.05 - NASA scientists have, for the first time, detected and pinned down the location of a short gamma-ray burst, lasting only 50 milliseconds.
02.18.05 - Scientists have detected a flash of light brighter than anything ever detected from beyond our Solar System.
01.21.05 - The NASA-led Swift mission has detected and imaged its first gamma-ray burst.
08.21.04 - Learn more about the Swift mission.
NASA Launch Manager Chuck Dovale describes the successful launch and decisions for the short delay.
› View This VideoCongratulations are offered all around as Swift begins its journey to nimbly seek out fleeting gamma-ray bursts on the fly.
› View This VideoA superb launch and flawless liftoff for NASA's Swift spacecraft to study the mystery of gamma-ray bursts.
› View This VideoJohn Honig, Swift launch site integration manager, describes spacecraft transporation and preparation process.
› View This Video