Scientists discover galaxy's youngest supernova

[Rick]

Where have all the Milky Way's supernovas gone?

Contrary to what would seem a basic survival instinct, many astronomers are positively keen to get more catastrophic, solar-system-busting explosions in our home galaxy. But until recently, a good Jerry Bruckheimer space opera hasn't appeared to reach Earth since the seventeenth century.

Researchers announced today they discovered a supernova in the Milky Way that would have begun as early as the late 19th century from the Earth's perspective.

The remains of the star - dubbed G1.9+0.3 - is not only the youngest known supernova in the galaxy but also helps fill a puzzling lack of stellar destruction seen in our corner of the universe.

More: http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/05/14/galaxys_youngest_supernova/