A Supernova Riddle
Douglas C. Leonard (San Diego State University)
TL;DR
This paper reviews the use of spectropolarimetry in studying Type Ia supernovae, highlighting recent findings that suggest asymmetries in supernova explosions based on polarization data.
Contribution
It critically evaluates recent observational data and trends in supernova polarization, providing context and insights into the shape and matter distribution of supernova ejecta.
Findings
A trend in polarization data from 17 Type Ia supernovae suggests asymmetry.
Spectropolarimetry is a valuable tool for understanding supernova explosion geometries.
The review contextualizes recent observational results within the broader field.
Abstract
Analysis of the polarization of light from supernovae can reveal the shape and distribution of matter ejected from exploding stars. Here we review the young field of Type Ia supernova spectropolarimetry and critically evaluate, and place in context, the recent work of Wang et al. (2007, Science, 315, 212) in which a suggestive trend is found in data from 17 Type Ia events.
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