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Today in History: Gamma-Ray Burst Becomes Farthest Visible Object

3/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On March 19, 2008, astronomers detected gamma-ray burst GRB 080319B, the farthest object visible to the naked eye. Detected by the Swift satellite, it reached a peak visual magnitude of 5.7 and was visible for about 30 seconds. This event marked a significant milestone in gamma-ray astronomy, showcasing the universe's most powerful explosions.

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Story summary

On March 19, 2008, astronomers detected gamma-ray burst GRB 080319B, the farthest object visible to the naked eye. Detected by the Swift satellite, it reached a peak visual magnitude of 5.7 and was visible for about 30 seconds. This event marked a significant milestone in gamma-ray astronomy, showcasing the universe's most powerful explosions.