The Emerging Theory of Core-Collapse Supernova Explosions

Using our code Fornax we have simulated the collapse and explosion of the

cores of many massive-star models in three spatial dimensions to late times. This is the

most comprehensive set of realistic 3D core-collapse supernova (CCSN)

simulations yet performed and has provided very important insights into

the mechanism and character of this 60-year-old astrophysical puzzle.

Most 3D models explode naturally and without artifice by the neutrino

mechanism, aided by turbulent convection. I will present

detailed results from this suite of runs and the novel

conclusions derived from our new capacity to simulate many 3D, as opposed

to 2D and 1D, full physics models every year. Emerging are insights into

the criteria for explosion, the systematics of explosion energy and

residual neutron-star mass with progenitor, the characteristics of

proto-neutron star convection, neutrino and gravitational-wave emissions

and signatures, the morphology of CCSN explosions, and supernova

nucleosynthesis. This new capability, enabled by this new algorithm and

modern HPC assets, is poised to transform our understanding of this

central astrophysical phenomenon.