Supernova PTF12glz: a possible shock breakout driven through an aspherical wind

Understand

We present visible-light and ultraviolet (UV) observations of the supernova PTF12glz.

• The SN was discovered and monitored in near-UV and R bands as part of a joint GALEX and Palomar Transient Factory campaign.
• It is among the most energetic Type IIn supernovae observed to date (~10^{51} erg).
• If the radiated energy mainly came from the thermalization of the shock kinetic energy, we show that PTF12glz was surrounded by ~1 solar mass of circumstellar material (CSM) prior to its explosive death.