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N. Bartel, M.F. Bietenholz (York U.), M.P. Rupen, A.J. Beasley (NRAO), D.A. Graham (MPIfR), V.I. Altunin (JPL), T. Venturi (IRA-Bologna), G. Umana (IRA-Noto), J.E. Conway (OSO), W.H. Cannon (York U./CRESTech)
Five years of VLBI observations of the nearby supernova SN1993J in the galaxy M81 have resulted in 20 consecutive images that show in unprecedented detail the dynamical evolution of an exploded star. The images display the complex behavior of the shockfront as it interacts with, and is decelerated by, the circumstellar medium. We will infer density profiles and quantify through modelling, imaging, and astrometric measurements the high isotropy of the expansion velocity. We then estimate the dynamical distance to the host galaxy. Spectral index maps of the supernova give first insights into the acceleration process of the electrons responsible for the supernova's radio synchrotron emission. We will show the video ``SUPERNOVA: DEATH OF A STAR,'' which contains the VLBI images along with an animated explanatory introduction, suitable for a scientific audience as well as for schools and the general public.
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