Connecting Kilonovae and Merger Dynamics with Numerical Relativity

I will discuss how the dynamics and outcome of neutron star mergers is imprinted in the brightness, duration, and color of the resulting kilonovae. I will review results of recent simulations that explore different scenarios ranging from prompt collapse, to the formation of stable massive neutron star remnants. I will show to what extent existing observations constrain these scenarios and the potential for future discoveries. Finally, I will discuss current limitations in the theory models and efforts to overcome them.