Souped-up supernovas may produce much of the universe’s heavy elements

Analysis of a rare, ancient star suggests a new birthplace for elements like uranium and silver

illustration of a hypernova

Explosions of massive, magnetized stars (similar to the one illustrated) may be the source of much of the universe’s heavy elements.

Anna Serena Esposito

Violent explosions of massive, magnetized stars may forge most of the universe’s heavy elements, such as silver and uranium.