Supernovas are as spectacular as they are rare. In early 1987, a giant star exploded in the sky- one of the most violent celestial events since the creation of the universe. Twenty times as massive as the sun, the giant star was observed first by a Canadian astronomer in Chile, then by scientists all over the globe. The incredibly powerful blast created super NOVA hysteria- sending small particles through outer space and shock waves through the astrophysics community.

Why did this phenomenon fascinate, baffle and delight astronomers? What causes a star to explode? How will these energy blasts help us understand our universe? NOVA takes you to space and around the globe- from Chile to Japan to Cleveland, Ohio, where supernova "neutrinos" were discovered- for an astounding look at the true meaning of star power.