Hints of point-symmetric structures in SN 1987A: the jittering jets explosion mechanism

TL;DR

This paper presents evidence of point-symmetric structures in SN 1987A's ejecta, supporting the jittering jets explosion mechanism by comparing observed clumps to jet-inflated lobes in nebulae.

Contribution

It identifies a point-symmetric structure in SN 1987A's ejecta and links it to jet-driven explosion models, providing observational support for the jittering jets mechanism.

Findings

Identification of three pairs of point-symmetric clumps in SN 1987A

Similarity between SN 1987A structures and post-AGB nebula lobes

Support for jet-driven explosion mechanism in SN 1987A

Abstract

I identify a point-symmetric structure composed of three pairs of clumps in the recently released JWST image of the ejecta of SN 1987A and argue that these pairs of clumps support the jittering jets explosion mechanism (JJEM) for SN 1987A. I compare this point-symmetric structure with the multipolar-lobe morphology of a post-asymptotic giant branch nebula. The three pairs of clumps in the post-AGB nebula are formed at the tip of jet-inflated lobes. I use this similarity to strengthen earlier claims that SN 1987A was exploded by jets in the frame of the JJEM.