A1_10 The Star of Bethlehem: A Violent Explosion

Abstract

In this paper, we examine the feasibility and implications of the theory that the Star of Bethlehem was a supernova in the Andromeda Galaxy. Using the limiting magnitude of the human eye and Type Ia supernova light curves, we found the absolute maximum magnitude of the supernova to be −20.6. In addition, inferring its energy budget for the supernova remnant expansion from its magnitude, we conclude that these remnants with a size of 0.3 pc could be resolved by the Very Large Telescope today.