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Earth & Space Sciences · Stars & the Universe
Type Ia Supernova Distance & Light Curve Simulation
Students inspect a Type Ia supernova light curve, use its standardised luminosity and observed brightness to estimate distance, and test their result in a distance-estimation challenge. The full interactive is available to licensed Education Universe users.
Years 11–12, UndergraduateExplorer
Learning outcomes
- Interpret a supernova light curve.
- Use standardised luminosity to estimate distance.
- Explain why Type Ia supernovae are used as standard candles.
Teaching guidance
Ask students to state the assumptions behind their distance estimate before entering the challenge.
Use Type Ia Supernova Distance Estimator with your class
Start a free 30-day trial with class codes and progress tracking, or talk to us about your school's licence.
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Type Ia Supernova Distance Estimator is one of the licensed interactives in The Education Universe. This page describes it; teachers use it in lessons and classes with a licence or the free trial.