What was the largest and longest supernova observed?

 Considering naked eye observation from the Earth, SN 1006 was definitely the brightest supernova event recorded in history. The number 1006 refers the year it was seen, a common way to designate supernova events. It reached a peak magnitude of 

$-7.5M$ and the reason it appeared as bright as quarter of Moon light is because, later it was found out that this Supernova is just (now a remnant) 7200 light years away. It stayed in the peak magnitude for two days, April 30th and May 1st, as recorded by the then Egyptian astronomer Ali Ibn Ridwan (Ali ibn Ridwan - Wikipedia). Later Chandra Observatory explored the faint X-ray signals from this Supernova remnant and it was confirmed to be a Type 1 supernova (X-Ray View of A Thousand-Year-Old Cosmic Tapestry).

But, if You extend the observation beyond the naked eye then there are two more important events that need to be mentioned.

Using the ASASSN telescope (All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae - Wikipedia), scientists discovered the most luminous supernova event (SN2015l). The event reached a magnitude of $-23.5\pm 0.1$ but from earth it was impossible to see with naked eye as the galaxy where this event took place is located around 3.8 billion light-years away (ASASSN-15lh: A highly super-luminous supernova). Just to give you an idea of the magnitude of this event we can draw a comparison. We all know that Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky and it’s about 9 light years away. If this supernova event would have happened at that distance then it would have blazed almost as powerfully as the Sun. If it were as close as Pluto then it would have eaten up the whole solar system. Now, as a student of Cosmic Ray (CR) science, these events are extremely useful as we believe that Supernova are the sources of CRs which hit earth from all direction every moment, and these events are proof that the Supernova explosions do have enough energy that they can act as CR sources.

Last but not the least, before SN 2015l event, there was one more interesting event recorded on 2006 which was the then most luminous event recorded (An extremely luminous supernova in the galaxy NGC 1260) with peak magnitude recorded at $-22$, where the galaxy NGC 1260 was 238 million light years away. To reach the peak magnitude from $-15$ to $-22$it took around 20 days, so definitely it was a long event.

This event was believed to be the result of the death of a massive star, like Eta Carinae (Discovery of the most luminous supernova ever recorded, powered by the death of an extremely massive star like Eta Carinae). Now if You don’t know Eta Carinae, check it out and it’s definitely one of the most interesting star which is 7500 light years away and believed to be exploding as a supernova soon.

Now if You recall the first event I mentioned SN 1006, the distance of the supernova was around 7200 light years away and the Supernova was seen from many different parts of the world, so we should expect to see the massive explosion of the binary system of Eta Carinae from Earth. So let’s hope for the best !

VY CANIS MAJORIS, one of the largest stars in the Milky Way

 When the French astronomer Jérôme Lalande first observed VY Canis Majoris in 1801, he described it as a seventh magnitude star like many others. Certainly, Lalande did not expect that this faint dot was actually a very bright red hypergiant and one of the largest stars in our Galaxy.

VY Canis Majoris is a star still shrouded in many mysteries, whose physical properties are little known.

One of the few well-known aspects is its variability: the star indeed varies its brightness over a cycle of 956 days, going from an apparent magnitude of 9.6 to one of 6.5, at the limit of visibility to the naked eye.

As for the distance, the value is very uncertain, but the best estimates suggest it is located 4000 light-years away from us.

From the spectrum of VY Canis Majoris, it has been found that it is an M-type star with a surface temperature below 4000 Kelvin, in addition to some information on the atmospheric composition.

From visible and infrared photometry, it has been derived that the star should be 350,000 times more luminous than the Sun, thus making it one of the most luminous stars in the entire Milky Way. The star, however, is surrounded by a shell of gas expelled in the past, which absorbs much of the radiation making it invisible to the naked eye from Earth.

According to the most recent estimates, the star is indeed expelling about 0.01 solar masses per year into space. Consequently, its current mass, estimated at 17 solar masses, is much lower compared to its original mass.

The estimate of the diameter of VY Canis Majoris is strongly influenced by the values assumed for the other stellar parameters and by the presence of the shell that surrounds it. Estimates of its size vary between 1400 and 2000 solar diameters, placing it in any case among the largest stars in the Milky Way.

In this artistic representation, the size of VY Canis Majoris is compared to that of the Sun and Earth's orbit.

Image Credit: Oona Räisänen.

What is the largest country that very few people know about or think about?

 Kazakhstan is large. :^)

The 9th largest in the world by area in fact at 2,724,900 square kilometres.

Arguably one of the more successful post-Soviet states, their PPP per capita is relatively high all things considered, beating out countries such as Turkey, Romania and Croatia. They also rank highly in terms of mineral and natural resource abundance.

But few know about Kazakhstan in the West, barring those with roots in the former USSR sphere of influence. Outside, they’re just known as “one of those stan countries”, or “BORAT”. The first time I met a Kazakh friend of mine through a mutual friend, she was surprised that I recognised the names of the different CA countries when we talked about where we were from (I already knew some friends from the area).

Kazakhstan also has a long and illustrious history being home to various nomadic cultures, even forming a Khanate of their own in the 15th century.

In fairness to those who don’t know or think about it, neither Kazakhstan nor the other Central Asian countries are often reported about in mainstream news, being overshadowed by the giants they have as neighbours, notably China, Russia and Iran.

World’s Largest Golden Temple

 Golden Temple Sripuram, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, BHARAT (India) 🚩

Dedicated to Shri Lakshmi Narayani / Maha Lakshmi. Built by Sri Narayani Peedam trust according to traditional Vedic architecture in 2007 & is Star-shaped (Sri chakra).

This temple is adorned with 1500 kgs of Gold which is double that of Amritsar’s Golden Temple.

The Largest Known Structure In The Observable Universe

 Quipu, the largest known structure in the observable universe, is a colossal cosmic web spanning approximately 1.3 billion light-years.

Discovered through advanced astronomical surveys, it comprises an intricate network of galaxies, galaxy clusters, and intergalactic gas bound by gravity.

This megastructure, named after the Incan knotted-string system, contains an estimated 200 quadrillion (2×10^17) solar masses, dwarfing typical galaxy clusters.

Its immense scale challenges our understanding of cosmic structure formation, as it pushes the limits of homogeneity predicted by the cosmological principle, which assumes the universe is uniform on the largest scales.

Quipu’s vastness is shaped by dark matter, forming a scaffolding that draws baryonic matter into filaments, walls, and voids.

These structures channel galaxies into dense regions, with Quipu’s mass dominated by dark matter and hot gas, alongside millions of galaxies.

Its discovery, likely aided by tools like the Sloan Digital Sky Survey or future observatories like the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, underscores the universe’s hierarchical organization.

Studying Quipu helps astronomers probe dark energy’s role in cosmic expansion and refine models of large-scale structure formation, revealing the universe’s complexity over unimaginable distances.

#Quipu

World's 10 Largest Islands Ranked By Area

 

Greenland

• Area: 2,166,086 square km (836,331 square miles)

• Greenland is the largest island in the world, located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It’s technically an autonomous territory of Denmark.

New Guinea

• Area: 785,753 square km (303,381 square miles)

• Located in the Pacific Ocean, it is shared by Papua New Guinea and Indonesia. It’s the second-largest island in the world.

Borneo

• Area: 748,168 square km (288,869 square miles)

• Split between three countries—Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia. It's known for its tropical rainforests and diverse wildlife.

Madagascar

• Area: 587,041 square km (226,658 square miles)

• Located off the southeastern coast of Africa, Madagascar is the fourth-largest island and famous for its unique wildlife and biodiversity.

Baffin Island

• Area: 507,451 square km (195,928 square miles)

• Located in the Arctic, it’s the largest island in Canada and part of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.

Sumatra

• Area: 473,481 square km (183,858 square miles)

• Sumatra is one of the major islands of Indonesia and is known for its volcanic mountains, rainforests, and wildlife, including endangered species like the Sumatran tiger.

Honshu

• Area: 227,962 square km (88,023 square miles)

• The largest island of Japan, home to major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

Great Britain

• Area: 209,331 square km (80,823 square miles)

• Comprising England, Scotland, and Wales, it’s the largest island in the British Isles.

Victoria Island

• Area: 217,291 square km (83,897 square miles)

• Another island in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, it is the second-largest island in Canada.

Eurasian Islands (Europe-Asia)

• The combination of islands in the Mediterranean and the Arctic, such as Iceland, can sometimes make it challenging to rank but typically these would fall into the top islands.

What is the largest flat top mountain in the world?

 There are many mountains in the world that have a “table top” structure. I will focus on two candidates for the title of the largest flat top mountain in the world.

Mount Roraima: English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh first described this mountain during his expedition to the area in 1596. It is located at a tripoint of three countries: Venezuela/Brazil/Guyana. The mountain’s summit area is defended by 400-metre-tall cliffs on all sides. Its total height is 2,810 m, and its summit surface area is 31km². In short a massive table top mountain.

Here is another view of the top:

Since I posted this answer , there have been many comments about what the top looks like. Here are two photos from World’s Great Wonders by Jheni Osman, that gives readers some inkling what the top looks like:

There is no evidence that pterodactyls or other ancient beast lived on the plateau. Of course the plateau is home to many plant species found nowhere else on Earth. These endemic plants and small animals have developed and are unique to the area.

The second candidate is Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa: The table top is 1,086 metres (3,563 ft) above sea level. The length of the “ table” is approximately three kilometres (2 miles). The pic below is the front view as seen from the waterfront area of Cape Town.

Table Mountain is certainly not as high as Mount Roraima, and as far as I can tell from my visits the “flat top” does not exceeds 31 square kilometers. Thus Mount Roraima takes the prize as the largest table top mountain.

But what is clear is that anyone can readily get to the top of Table Mountain via cable car, or you can hike up, which I have done. Here is part of the Smuts trail that starts in Kirstenbosch Gardens that I took:

It takes about 1.5–2hrs to reach the top.

In contrast to get to the top of Mount Roraima requires serious climbing with professionals.

The view from the top of Table Mountain is spectacular. Here is a view from the Top of Table Mountain, with Cape Point in the distance. Note the dam/reservoir on the top of Table Mountain. This pic was taken near Maclear's beacon, the highest point on Table Mountain

Our hike started in Kirstenbosch Gardens following the Smuts trail. Here is a view of Cape Town and Signal Hill from the Top:

And finally a view of Camps Bay on the Atlantic side

So in summary Mount Roraima is the largest flat top mountain the world based on height and the expanse of its table top, but Table Mountain though second in size and height can be readily experienced by all, either by hiking or taking the cable car to the top!

The largest and deepest natural funnel on Earth

 The largest and deepest natural funnel on Earth is called Xiaotsai Tiankan.

It is located in the center of China, Penzhi. This amazing funnel is completely natural and measures 662 meters deep and 537 meters wide. But the most impressive thing is the diversity of life it contains.

Geologists are surprised by the influence of water on Xiaotsai Tiankan. A funnel was formed at the top of the cave, where an 8.5 kilometer long underground river falls into a beautiful waterfall. Thanks to its huge size it is the deepest karst funnel in the world.

It is home to about 1,300 species of plants and wild animals. Among the most interesting inhabitants of the underground forest is the misty panther, known to the locals since ancient times.

What is the largest star in space?

 We will never know the largest star in space. We can only tell you what is the largest star discovered to this date. The Universe is simply too vast to say that what “WE” found is the largest star in space.

That is Stephenson 2–18

Stephenson 2-18 (St2-18) is a red supergiant located in the constellation Scutum. Also catalogued as Stephenson 2-DFK 1 and RSGC2-18, it is the current record holder for the largest star known, with a size 2,150 times that of the Sun.

How big is Stephenson 2-18, among the largest stars in the known universe? It would take earth's fastest jet over 500 years to travel around. It would take almost 9 hours at the speed of light. Its circumference equals the orbit of Saturn.

The star is located at a distance of 18,900 light years from Earth. It is a member of the open cluster Stephenson 2.

So, as our telescopic technology or any revolutionary technology, let us pear deeper into space this we will find out that there are stars even bigger than Stephenson 2–18. It's just a matter of time and innovation.

Top 10 largest houses in the world 2024

 

Luxurious estates have long fascinated people around the globe. These grand architectural wonders, ranging from vast mansions to lavish palaces, showcase the immense wealth and opulence of their owners. This article delves into the top 10 largest houses in the world, where the square footage is astonishing, and luxury is limitless.

Which is the Largest House in the World?

Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s most extensive residential palace, functions as the official residence for the Sultan of Brunei, his family, and esteemed guests. Designed by Filipino architect Leandro Locsin, the palace showcases a fusion of Malay and Islamic architectural elements, creating a grand and palatial aesthetic. This lavish residence boasts an astonishing 1,788 rooms, featuring amenities such as air-conditioned stables for the sultan’s 200 polo ponies, a mosque capable of hosting up to 5,000 people, and an expansive 110-car garage. As of 2024, Istana Nurul Iman retains its status as the biggest house in the world, embodying opulence and architectural grandeur.

Key Facts About the Largest House in the World

Here are the key facts related to largest house in the world, Istana Nurul Iman:

• Istana Nurul Iman Palace: The world’s largest house in 2023, the Istana Nurul Iman Palace in Brunei covers 2.15 million square feet and features over 1,700 rooms, including 257 bathrooms.
• Construction Cost: Completed in 1984, this extravagant palace cost approximately $1.4 billion to build, showcasing the immense wealth of its owner, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
• Grand Banquet Hall: The palace boasts a banquet hall capable of hosting up to 5,000 guests, emphasizing its opulence and ability to accommodate large-scale events.
• Religious Significance: A massive mosque within the palace can accommodate up to 1,500 worshippers, highlighting the religious and cultural aspects integrated into its design.
• Luxurious Amenities: With a 110-car garage, a stable for horses, and an air-conditioned space for exotic cars, the Istana Nurul Iman Palace combines luxury and functionality.
• Lush Surroundings: Surrounded by expansive gardens, including a botanical garden with rare orchids, a 200-foot swimming pool, and a helipad, the palace exemplifies regal living.
• Advanced Security: Equipped with state-of-the-art security systems and round-the-clock monitoring, the palace ensures the safety and privacy of its occupants.
• Official Functions Only: Despite its grandeur, the palace is primarily used for official functions and ceremonies, with the Sultan’s family residing in a separate, more modest palace.
• Symbol of Wealth and Power: The Istana Nurul Iman Palace serves as a symbol of Sultan Bolkiah’s immense wealth and political power, contributing to its status as one of the world’s most extravagant royal residences.
• Extravagant Yet Reserved: While extravagant in design and size, the palace remains reserved for specific occasions, adding an air of exclusivity to its already impressive stature.

List of Top-10 Biggest Houses in the World

Istana Nurul Iman Palace, located in Brunei with the area of 2,152,782 square kilometers, holds the title of the biggest house in the world, followed by Buckingham Palace, Antilia and Biltmore Estate.

Here is the list of top-10 biggest houses in the world:

Largest Houses in the World
S. No.	Houses	Location	Area (in sq. km)	Estimated Value
1.	Istana Nurul Iman Palace	Brunei	2,152,782	$1.5 billion
2.	Buckingham Palace	London, UK	828,820	$3.2 billion
3.	Antilia	Mumbai, India	400,000	$1 billion – $2 billion
4.	Biltmore Estate	Asheville, North Carolina, USA	178,926	$155 million
5.	Safra Mansion	Sao Paulo, Brazil	117,000	$127 million
6.	Fair Field	Sagaponack, New York State, USA	110,000	$249 million
7.	Witanhurst	London, United Kingdom	90,000	$450 million
8.	Versailles	Windermere, Florida, USA	90,000	$100 million
9.	The Gemini Mansion	Manalapan, Palm Beach, Florida, USA	85,000	$173 million
10.	Villa Leopolda	French Riviera, France	80,000	$750 million

World’s Biggest House – Istana Nurul Iman Palace

 

• Location: Brunei
• Area: 2,152,782  sq.km
• Estimated Value: $1.5 billion

Istana Nurul Iman, the world’s largest residential palace, stands as the designated residence for the Sultan of Brunei, his family, and esteemed guests. Crafted by Filipino architect Leandro Locsin, the palace seamlessly blends elements of Malay and Islamic architecture, creating a majestic and palatial aesthetic. This opulent residence boasts an impressive 1,788 rooms, housing not only living spaces but also air-conditioned stables for the sultan’s 200 polo ponies, a mosque accommodating up to 5,000 people, and a vast 110-car garage, showcasing the extravagant lifestyle within its grand walls.

Second Largest House in the World – Buckingham Palace

 

• Location: London, UK
• Area: 828,820 sq. km
• Estimated Value: 3.2 billion

Buckingham Palace, an iconic symbol of royalty globally, stands as one of the grandest and largest residences. This Neoclassical marvel, serving as the official London residence for the United Kingdom’s monarchs since 1837, now functions as Queen Elizabeth‘s primary administrative hub. With an impressive total of 775 rooms, including renowned spaces like the opulent gilded white drawing room and the majestic throne room, the palace stands as the second-largest house in the world, embodying regal splendor and historical significance.

Third Biggest House in the World – Antilia

 Location: Mumbai, India

• Area: 400,000 sq. km
• Estimated Value: $1 -$2 billion

Antilia stands tall over the Mumbai skyline, ranking among the planet’s most extravagant and costly residences. Owned by business tycoon Mukesh Ambani, this 27-story residence is estimated to carry a price tag ranging from $1 to $2 billion. Crafted by Chicago-based architects Perkins and Will, the design incorporates features to withstand severe earthquakes, achieved by structuring each floor equivalent to the height of a two-story building. Antilia encompasses luxurious amenities including an exclusive ice cream parlor, a sprawling mega-temple, and a grand 50-person movie theater. As the third-largest house globally, it symbolizes opulence and innovation in architectural design.