HONOLULU (KHON2) -- In the year 1181, something incredible happened in the night sky. A new star appeared and dazzled observers around the world. KHON2.com was able to sit down with Dr. John O’Meara who is the Deputy Director and Chief Scientist at the W. M. Keck Observatory. He shared some fascinating insights about this historic supernova. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You "Back in 1181, a new star emerged in the constellation Cassiopeia, which resembles a giant W," Dr. O’Meara explained. "This star appeared where there hadn’t been one before, captivating astronomers across the globe." This supernova was visible to people in places like China, Japan, and Korea. They recorded this event in their astronomical texts and made note of how the star remained in the same spot and gradually faded over time. "It stuck around for about six months before it disappeared," Dr. O’Meara said. Imagine what the ancient Hawaiian astronomers might have seen that night. If they looked up at the sky, they would have witnessed the same stunning phenomenon as their Asian counterparts. "It’s incredible to think that people across different cultures were experiencing this bright spectacle together," Dr. O’Meara noted. Supernovae are rare, occurring about once a century in our Milky Way galaxy. Dr. O’Meara mentioned, "Only five supernovae have been documented in history that were bright enough to be seen with the naked eye." This rarity makes the 1181 event all the more remarkable. "When something new appears in the sky, it’s a jolt to the system," he said. Ancient cultures would have interpreted this sudden appearance in various ways, influenced by their own myths and beliefs. For instance, Dr. O’Meara explained, "Cultures often see comets and supernovae as omens. Some might celebrate, while others might fear it as a sign of doom." Each group likely had its own stories to tell about this mysterious star. "The night sky was their constant, and any change was significant," he added. But why do we study supernovae today? Dr. O’Meara emphasized that the study of these celestial events matters for multiple reasons. "First, we don’t completely understand how stars explode," he said. "This explosion is a critical process in the universe." The way a supernova interacts with its surroundings reveals much about the cosmos. "The debris from the explosion spreads out, creating intricate patterns that look like flowers in the sky," he explained. This beautiful imagery leads to deeper questions. Why do these explosions happen? What do they teach us about the stars and the universe? "Supernovae also play a crucial role in forming the elements we need for life," Dr. O’Meara said. "The carbon in our bodies, the oxygen we breathe -- many of these elements are created during a star's death throes." To connect it all, Dr. O’Meara stated, "Studying supernovae gives us a direct link to the universe and the elements that make up life itself. It's a profound realization that the universe has a hand in creating the very things we are made of." This connection between the cosmos and everyday life is something everyone can appreciate. It shows how the study of astronomy isn't just about distant stars; it's about understanding our own existence and the origins of the materials that make up our world. For young people considering a future in science, Dr. O’Meara’s insights serve as an invitation. "Astronomy is an exciting field that combines art, science and philosophy. There’s so much we still don't know," he said. "Exploring these mysteries is not just a job -- it's a journey of discovery." He encourages students to look up at the stars and ask questions. "Why does this happen? How does it relate to me?" Dr. O’Meara urged. The night sky is full of stories waiting to be uncovered, each one linking us to cultures past and the universe’s vast history. In the end, the supernova of 1181 was not just a moment in time; it was a shared experience that echoed through the ages. For those ancient observers, it sparked wonder, fear and celebration. Today, it reminds us of our place in the universe and the scientific paths we can take to explore it. As Dr. O’Meara concluded, "The more we learn about the universe, the more we learn about ourselves. Each discovery in astrophysics enriches our understanding of life on Earth." You can learn more about the W. M. Keck Observatory located on Hawaii Island by clicking here. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 So, next time you look up at the night sky, remember: it’s not just a backdrop; it’s a canvas of stories waiting for curious minds to explore.