Compact Object Formation and the Supernova Explosion Engine

TL;DR

This paper reviews how observations and theory of supernovae and gamma-ray bursts inform our understanding of the formation of neutron stars and black holes from massive star collapses.

Contribution

It synthesizes current knowledge on the connection between supernova explosions, gamma-ray bursts, and the formation of compact objects, highlighting recent observational and theoretical insights.

Findings

Core-collapse supernovae are linked to neutron star and black hole formation.

Gamma-ray bursts are associated with certain supernovae, providing clues about the explosion engine.

Observations of transients and compact objects constrain models of stellar collapse.

Abstract

When a massive star ends its life, its core collapses, forming a neutron star or black hole and producing some of the most energetic explosions in the universe. Core-collapse supernovae and long-duration gamma-ray bursts are the violent signatures of compact remnant formation. As such, both fields are intertwined and, coupled with theory, observations of transients can help us better understand compact remnants just as neutron star and black hole observations can constrain the supernova and gamma-ray burst engine. We review these ties in this paper.