X-rays and cosmic rays are supernova's deadliest hazards

A supernova is a powerful explosion that occurs when a star dies. While most of the energy from a supernova is harmless at great distances, some parts can be deadly, especially X-rays. The shock wave from a supernova is highly destructive. However, if you are close enough to feel it, you are likely already exposed to lethal radiation. Therefore, it's crucial to stay far away from such events. Visible light is bright and impressive during a supernova, but it is not dangerous at a distance. It only makes up about 1% of the energy released in the explosion, making it a non-issue for anyone far away in space. The biggest energy output from a supernova actually comes from neutrinos. These tiny particles rarely interact with matter and pose no threat to people, even during a supernova event. X-rays and gamma rays are more concerning. While they don't make up the majority of energy emitted, they still release a significant amount of high-energy radiation. This can be harmful if you are in close proximity to the explosion. Cosmic rays, which are high-energy particles from space, can also pose risks. They can cause damage at a cellular level and are responsible for a small percentage of cancers on Earth. Thankfully, the Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field protect us from most cosmic rays. In conclusion, for anyone observing a supernova from a safe distance, the X-rays and cosmic rays are the main hazards to watch for, despite their relatively small energy output compared to the overall explosion.