A supernovae / supernovas is a stellar explosion. They are extremely luminous and cause a burst of radiation that may briefly outshine an entire galaxy before fading from view over several weeks or months. Now scientists plan supernova blasts in lab to tap energy.
The aim is to build some of the world's most powerful lasers and use them to blast tiny pellets of hydrogen fuel to create energy.
The process is similar to the supernova explosion that heralds the death of a star.
Researchers say the process could offer a partial solution to the world's energy crisis, offering a source of carbon-free power with only a minimum of radioactive waste.
