Was the supernova of AD 1054 reported in European history?
Abstract
The bright supernova of AD 1054, which produced the Crab Nebula, was extensively reported in East Asia and there is also a brief Arabic reference. Whether the star was recorded in European history has long been a matter of debate. In this paper we investigate in some detail purported European accounts of the supernova. We conclude that none of these are viable. The new star probably escaped notice in Europe because at the time astronomical knowledge was generally very limited.
- Publication:
-
Journal of Astronomical History and Heritage
- Pub Date:
- June 2003
- Bibcode:
- 2003JAHH....6...46S
- Keywords:
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- calendar;
- chronicles;
- Crab Nebula;
- Europe;
- history;
- moon;
- supernova