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The Progenitor of SN 1987A
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Abstract
Spatially resolved IUE spectra (1150 to 2000 A) taken at the position of SN 1987A in March 1987 show that the 12th mag B3 I star Sk -69 deg 202 disappeared. Only the fainter companion stars (Star 2 and Star 3) are present near the site of the supernova. It is concluded that Sk -69 deg 202 exploded to produce SN 1987A. The known characteristics of Sk -69 deg 202 are consistent with the interpretation that the progenitor was a relatively compact star, having a high-velocity low-density stellar wind prior to the outburst. Recent IUE spectra of SN 1987A (May 1988) show no evidence that Sk -69 deg 202 still exists inside the expanding ejecta