Direct Analysis of Supernova Spectra

University Of Oklahoma Norman Campus, Norman OK

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Branch, David "Direct Analysis of Supernova Spectra" AST-9986965 Dr. Branch is using a suite of efficient, parameterized spectrum-synthesis codes to extract information from the observed spectra of supernovae. The immediate goal is to determine the composition, density and velocity structure of supernovae ejecta and the associated circumstellar material. This information will be incorporated into a web-accessible database on supernovae. The results provide constraints on nuclear-hydrodynamic models of supernova explosions, and help to provide physically self-consistent, non-local thermodynamic equilibrium calculations of the emergent spectra of the models. Dr. Branch is also carrying out several related studies: (1) Monte Carlo studies of the effects of extinction by interstellar dust on the observed brightness and color of supernovae and of gamma-ray bursts; (2) Monte Carlo simulations of the distribution on the sky of gamma rays from radioactive 26Al; and (3) the determination of the luminosity distributions of supernovae. Funding for this project was provided by the NSF program for Stellar Astronomy & Astrophysics (AST/SAA).