In 2009, a possible supernova was detected within the galaxy, and was designated SN 2009ip. Since the brightness faded in a matter of days, it was redesignated as a luminous blue variable (LBV)supernova impostor.[4]
During the following years several luminous outbursts were detected from SN 2009ip.[5][4] In September 2012 SN 2009ip was classified as a young type IIn supernova.[6]
^Drake, A. J.; Howerton, S.; McNaught, R.; Djorgovski, S. G.; Mahabal, A. A.; Graham, M. J.; Williams, R.; Prieto, J.; Catelan, M.; Christensen, E.; Larson, S. (2012). "A New Luminous Outburst from SN 2009ip". The Astronomer's Telegram. 4334: 1. Bibcode:2012ATel.4334....1D. Retrieved November 29, 2017.
^Maza, J.; Hamuy, M.; Antezana, R.; Gonzalez, L.; Lopez, P.; Silva, S.; Folatelli, G.; Iturra, D.; Cartier, R.; Forster, F.; Marchi, S.; Rojas, A.; Pignata, G.; Conuel, B.; Reichart, D.; Ivarsen, K.; Haislip, J.; Crain, A.; Foster, D.; Nysewander, M.; Lacluyze, A. (2009). "Supernova 2009ip in NGC 7259". Central Bureau Electronic Telegrams. 1928: 1. Bibcode:2009CBET.1928....1M. Retrieved November 29, 2017.