Supernova SN 2026aaiv discovered in galaxy NGC 7331
Supernova SN 2026aaiv has been discovered in the spiral galaxy NGC 7331, located about 45 million light-years from Earth in the constellation Pegasus. It was recorded by the ATLAS sky survey on September 1. Amateur astronomers and astrophotographers can observe the object, although powerful equipment is needed for visual searches, Space.com reports.
Supernova in galaxy NGC 7331
NGC 7331, also known as Caldwell 30, is located near the Great Square of Pegasus. The galaxy is visible in the Northern Hemisphere and at mid-latitudes in the Southern Hemisphere. It was discovered by British astronomer William Herschel in 1784. In size, shape and mass, NGC 7331 is similar to the Milky Way.
SN 2026aaiv is classified as a Type Ia supernova. Such explosions occur when a white dwarf in a binary star system accumulates material from a companion star, triggering an uncontrolled thermonuclear reaction that destroys the white dwarf. Another Type Ia supernova, SN 2025rbs, was discovered in the same galaxy on July 14, 2025.
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How to search for the object
As of September 11, 2026, the apparent magnitude of SN 2026aaiv was 15.7: the object was faint but continued to brighten. NGC 7331 itself, with an apparent magnitude of about 10, can be seen only through a telescope or large binoculars, while the supernova is a considerably more difficult target for visual observations.
A large telescope is recommended for attempts to see SN 2026aaiv; observers have confirmed its detection using a 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope. During visual searches, averted vision can be used — looking slightly away from the galaxy's core to engage the retina's rods, which are more sensitive to faint light.
Coordinates of the supernova: right ascension 22h 37m 05.618s, declination +34° 24′ 35.37″. Users of the Seestar S50 smart telescope, according to the Seestar Official ZWO Group on Facebook, were able to photograph the object with about two hours of 10-second exposures.
