SGR 1806-20 facts for kids
SGR 1806-20 is a very special type of star called a magnetar. It is found far away in space, within the constellation of Sagittarius. This amazing star is about 50,000 light years from both the Sun and Earth. It is part of a group of stars known as the 1806-20 star cluster, which also includes a huge star called LBV 1806-20.
On December 27, 2004, SGR 1806-20 created a massive burst of energy. This burst was so powerful that it became the brightest event ever seen coming from outside our Solar System. It sent out a type of energy called a gamma-ray burst.
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What is a Magnetar?
A magnetar is a type of neutron star. Neutron stars are what is left after a very large star explodes in a supernova. They are incredibly dense, meaning a tiny bit of their material would weigh tons.
How Magnetars are Different
What makes a magnetar special is its super strong magnetic field. This field is much, much stronger than any magnet we can make on Earth. It is even stronger than the magnetic fields of other neutron stars.
The Power of Magnetism
The magnetic field of a magnetar is so strong it can affect things from far away. It can even cause "starquakes" on the surface of the magnetar. These quakes release huge amounts of energy, like the gamma-ray burst from SGR 1806-20.
Where is SGR 1806-20 Located?
SGR 1806-20 is in the Milky Way galaxy, which is our home galaxy. It is located in one of the spiral arms of the Milky Way.
Understanding Light Years
When we say SGR 1806-20 is 50,000 light years away, it means the light from this star takes 50,000 years to reach us. A light year is the distance light travels in one year. Light travels incredibly fast, so 50,000 light years is a truly enormous distance.
The Sagittarius Constellation
The constellation Sagittarius is a group of stars that form a pattern in the night sky. From Earth, it looks like a teapot. SGR 1806-20 is found within this part of the sky.
The Great Burst of 2004
On December 27, 2004, SGR 1806-20 had a giant eruption. This event released more energy in a tenth of a second than the Sun produces in 100,000 years! It was an incredible display of cosmic power.
Gamma-Ray Bursts Explained
A gamma-ray burst is the most powerful type of explosion in the universe. They release a huge amount of energy in the form of gamma rays. These are a very high-energy type of light.
Impact on Earth
Even though SGR 1806-20 is 50,000 light years away, the burst was still detected on Earth. It was so bright that it affected some of our satellites. It even caused a small change in Earth's atmosphere. This shows how incredibly powerful magnetars can be.
Images for kids
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Artist's impression of the surrounding cloud bubble
See also
In Spanish: SGR 1806-20 para niños
