The Physics of Supernova 1987A

Abstract

We describe multiwavelength observations of the evolving spectra and images of Supernova (SN) 1987A, and we review the principles used to infer the physical conditions in the explosion debris. We interpret the early optical and gamma-ray light curves with a simple diffusion model. We review the evidence for dust formation in the debris. We show X-ray and optical observations that enable us to characterize and map the shock fronts caused by of the interaction of the debris with circumstellar matter. We describe how observations of millimeter emission lines due to rotational transitions of CO and SiO enable us to map the distribution, masses, and temperatures of these molecules in the debris.