Type of Gamma ray bursts

There are two types of gamma-ray bursts: short and long. Short bursts last no more than two seconds. Long bursts can last up to just over fifteen minutes. The shorter life of a short gamma-ray burst makes it more difficult for astronomers to study. Short bursts leave no trace of light because they have no detectable afterglow (a gleam of light that remains briefly after the original light has dissipated). In addition, weaker gamma-ray

Gamma ray bursts

Gamma-ray bursts are unexplained intense flashes of light that occur several times a day in distant galaxies. The bursts give off more light than anything else in the universe and then quickly fade away. They were first detected in the late 1960s when instruments on orbiting satellites picked them up. No known explosion besides the big bang is more powerful than a gamma-ray burst. (The big bang is a theory that explains the beginning of the universe as a tremendous explosion from a single point that occurred 12 to 15 billion years ago.) Gamma-ray bursts are mysterious because scientists do not know for sure what causes them or where in the sky they will occur.

Supernova Remnent

The expanding and cooling shell of gas and dust that is visible for thousands of years after a supernova. After a few tens of thousands of years supernova remnants mix with the interstellar medium and dissipate.

Magnetosphere

A planetary magnetic field. Not all planets have a magnetosphere. In terrestrial-type planets it is cause by the molten iron-nickel core and aligned with the north and south poles, and helps to shield against cosmic radiation. The magnetosphere extends some distance into space (depending on the strength of the local planetary magnetism) and is influenced by the solar wind. It is teardrop shaped - being longer in the side facing away from the Sun (the magneto-tail.)

Magnetic Storm

A temporary perturbation (disruption) of a planet's magnetic field, caused by solar flares. Since they disturb the ionosphere, magnetic storms can disrupt local EM radio transmissions. Magnetic storms usually last for a few days. During a magnetic storm, auroras increase over polar regions. Corona is known for its spectacular aurora displays