The Progenitor Systems and Explosion Mechanisms of Supernovae
Abstract
Supernovae are among the most powerful explosions in the universe. They affect the energy balance, global structure, and chemical make-up of galaxies, they produce neutron stars, black holes, and some gamma-ray bursts, and they have been used as cosmological yardsticks to detect the accelerating expansion of the universe. Fundamental properties of these cosmic engines, however, remain uncertain. In this review we discuss the progress made over the last two decades in understanding supernova progenitor systems and explosion mechanisms. We also comment on anticipated future directions of research and highlight alternative methods of investigation using young supernova remnants.
- Publication:
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New Horizons in Astronomy (BASH 2013)
- Pub Date:
- October 2013
- DOI:
- Bibcode:
- 2013nha..confE...9M