Shock waves and high-energy radiation are the deadliest parts

Scientists have analyzed the dangers of supernova explosions. A supernova occurs when a giant star explodes, releasing vast amounts of energy. Understanding what makes them dangerous helps to identify the deadliest parts of such an explosion. The shock wave from a supernova is one of the most destructive elements. When a star explodes, it sends debris flying at nearly the speed of light. Being close enough to feel this shock wave means you are also dangerously close to the radiation released before the explosion, which is lethal. Visible light is produced during a supernova, but it does not pose a significant threat at long distances. It accounts for only a small portion of the energy released. Although it could cause temporary or permanent blindness to someone nearby, injuries from light are not a major concern in terms of distance. Neutrinos are another product of a supernova. These tiny particles pass through most matter without interaction. People experience trillions of neutrinos every second, but they only interact with the body about once in a lifetime. Thus, neutrinos do not pose a threat from even a supernova's distance. On the other hand, high-energy radiation, such as X-rays and gamma rays, is emitted during a supernova. Although they are not produced in excessive amounts compared to other outputs, they can still be harmful. Therefore, they are a concern. Cosmic rays are another risk. These charged particles are generated during a supernova and can travel across space at high speeds. While Earth's atmosphere offers protection, cosmic rays still pass through us regularly. They can cause ionization damage in cells, contributing to health problems such as cancer. In summary, while several aspects of a supernova can be harmful, X-rays and cosmic rays are particularly noteworthy for their potential dangers.