Searcharxiv⌕ Search

arXiv subjects

Anjasha Gangopadhyay

Publications and source records attributed to Anjasha Gangopadhyay.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Tomography analysis of the intermediate-luminosity Type Iax SN 2024pxl

We present an abundance tomography analysis of SN 2024pxl, an intermediate luminosity Type Iax supernova ($M_{r}=-16.82 \pm 0.19$ mag), with the most-detailed follow-up in the Type Iax subclass to-date. As one of the few intermediate luminosity Type Iax objects, SN 2024pxl may link the two extremes of the peculiar thermonuclear supernova subclass. To test this hypothesis, we analyze its spectral evolution through the first 100 days after the explosion and aim to probe the structure of its ejecta. We conduct an abundance tomography analysis using synthetic spectra produced with the one dimensional radiative transfer code TARDIS. The fit of the spectral time series provides a radial scan of physical properties and probes the stratification of chemical elements throughout most of the SN ejecta. The observed spectral evolution is well fit with the final model, similar to the general predictions of the pure deflagration scenarios, but significant modifications are required in the density function of the inner ejecta and in the chemical profiles of the outermost regions. The constrained physical characteristics, such as the photospheric velocities and the time of maximum light, are also consistent with other SNe~Iax. Despite their small number, intermediate luminosity Type Iax SNe are not outliers in the subclass but demonstrate the continuous nature of SNe Iax through their luminosity range. Following this observation, we argue that all SNe~Iax share the same progenitor and explosion origin.

astro-ph.HE↗

Early NIR echo and the time variable mass loss history of Type IIn SN 2024kgi

We present a comprehensive analysis of the long-term photometric and spectroscopic monitoring campaign of the Type IIn Supernova (SN) 2024kgi. The SN reaches at peak an $r$-band absolute magnitude of $-19.81 \pm 0.06$ mag and a bolometric luminosity of $\sim 2 \times 10^{43}$ erg s$^{-1}$. We observe a break in the lightcurve at day $\sim 312$, after which the luminosity decline changes from $t^{-1.0}$ to $t^{-4.5}$, likely due to the shock sweeping the dense CSM. We introduce a semi-analytical lightcurve modeling approach for CSM-interaction in transients that accounts for variable diffusion time. We hence estimate a CSM mass of $2.34^{+11.8}_{-1.6} M_{\odot}$ and with a density profile $ρ_{csm} \propto r^{-2.74}$, indicating progressively increasing mass loss toward the SN explosion. The ejecta signatures emerge as broad H, He, and Ca II triplet lines, at day $\sim 80$, much earlier than expected from a spherically symmetric CSM, suggesting asymmetry in the CSM. After the lightcurve break, the H lines exhibit a wavelength-dependent deficit in the red-wing flux, indicating new dust formation in the ejecta and/or in the post-shock gas. We observe an NIR excess from day $\sim 40$ onwards. We attribute the early NIR excess before the lightcurve break solely to the NIR echo from pre-existing dust, as there are no other indications for new dust formation. The late-time NIR excess likely has contributions from both the preexisting and newly formed dust. The steady increase in mass loss, slow CSM velocity, and asymmetric CSM favor a binary interaction-induced mass loss.

astro-ph.HE↗

SN 2023gfo: A Peculiar Type IIP Supernova with High Luminosity and Normal Plateau Duration

We present near-infrared (NIR) and optical observations of the highly reddened Type IIP supernova (SN) 2023gfo in the nearby galaxy NGC 4995 ($d = 26.4 \pm 3.2$ Mpc), which reached a high peak luminosity of $M_V = -18.6$ mag. The SN was initially detected as a faint red event, with $B-V = 0.8$ mag at the beginning of the plateau phase. By comparison with template, we estimate a total extinction of $A_V = 2.1$ mag. After correcting for this extinction, we derive a peak quasi-bolometric luminosity of $(5.9 \pm 1.5)\times10^{42}$ erg s$^{-1}$, placing this event among the most luminous SNe IIP, while its plateau duration remains within the normal range. The early-phase optical spectrum exhibits a P-Cygni profile of H$α$, with a broad absorption of $V$ = $13{,}800$ km s$^{-1}$, which is among the highest observed for SNe IIP at comparable epochs. The high luminosity and the normal plateau duration suggest that this event represents an outlier. Applying an analytical model, we infer an unusually large progenitor radius. This may indicate that the progenitor experienced an extreme energy injection from the core to the envelope shortly before explosion, resulting in a substantially inflated radius. While ejecta-circumstellar matter (CSM) interaction could in principle account for the high luminosity, we find no observational evidence supporting strong interaction.

astro-ph.HE↗

Photometric and Spectroscopic Studies of Type Ic Supernovae SN 2020akf and SN 2021mxx

We present a comprehensive analysis of optical photometry and medium-resolution spectroscopy for Type Ic supernovae (SNe) SN 2020akf and SN 2021mxx. Our study covers the evolution of SN 2020akf from -5 to 109 days and SN 2021mxx from -3 to 115 days relative to their B-band maximum. Their peak quasi-bolometric luminosities are estimated at logL_bol = 42.37 +- 0.02 and 42.21 +- 0.02 erg/s, respectively. The velocities of the ejecta, derived from the Fe II 5169 A line at maximum light, are approximately 15000 km/s for SN~2020akf and about 10000 km/s for SN~2021mxx, which are consistent with those observed in other Type~Ic SNe. Using the semianalytical Arnett model, we estimate that SN 2020akf has a kinetic energy of E_k = 6.33 (+0.68)(-0.62) x 10^51 erg and an ejected mass of M_ej = 4.71 (+0.50)(-0.46) M_sun, while for SN 2021mxx, we get E_k = 0.54 (+0.08)(-0.12) x 10^51 erg and M_ej = 0.90 (+0.14)(-0.18),M_sun. The mass of Ni56 synthesized in the explosion is estimated at 0.10 +- 0.02 M_sun for SN 2020akf and 0.05 +- 0.01 M_sun for SN 2021mxx. The metallicities of the host galaxies near the SN regions are ~0.81 Z_sun for SN 2020akf and ~0.76 Z_sun for SN 2021mxx, where Z_sun indicates solar metallicity. Our detailed analysis suggests that SN 2020akf falls into the category of a transitional Type Ic SN, having spectral properties between normal and broad-line Type Ic SNe, while SN 2021mxx is a normal Type Ic SN with an extremely low value of the M_ej / E_k ratio.

astro-ph.HE↗

NLTE Spectral Modelling of the Nearby Stripped-Envelope Supernova 2024ehs

We present a detailed study of the Type IIb supernova 2024ehs, discovered in March 2024 in the nearby galaxy NGC 3443 at a distance of $23.8\pm 0.9$ Mpc. Using photometric and spectroscopic observations spanning 10 months, we analyse its light curve, spectral evolution, and physical properties with the \texttt{SUMO} radiative transfer code. SN 2024ehs exhibits a narrow light-curve peak, rapid decline, and weak helium lines, distinguishing it from typical Type IIb supernovae. Comparisons with other objects, including SNe 1993J and 2020acat, and modelling of nebular spectra suggest a low ejecta mass, high velocities ($\sim$20,000 \kms), and a $^{56}$Ni mass just below $\sim0.1 \, \mathrm{M}_{\odot}$. Furthermore, the nebular spectral models indicate a progenitor with a helium core mass of $\sim 6 \, \mathrm{M}_{\odot}$, consistent with a zero-age main-sequence mass of $\sim 23\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot}$. The composition of spectra is explored through photospheric modelling, finding a link between expansion velocity and the relative strength of different element lines. This work discusses further the diversity of stripped-envelope supernovae and the role of binary interactions for their progenitors, and demonstrates the need for further modelling to refine $^{56}$Ni mass estimates and to understand the physical mechanisms driving their evolution.

astro-ph.HE↗

SN 2024dy: Dust formation in a long-lived Type IIn supernova and constraints on the dust mass

Type~IIn supernovae (SNe) are a subclass of core-collapse SNe powered by interaction between the ejecta and the dense circumstellar material. Among them, long-lived Type~IIn events are characterized by luminous, long-duration light curves with high radiative energy. Several cases of long-lived type IIn SNe exhibit substantial dust emission at late times. However, well-observed examples remain limited, and the details of their dust formation mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here we present photometric and spectroscopic observations of the Type~IIn SN~2024dy in ultraviolet, optical, and near-infrared (NIR) wavelength for $500$ days. SN~2024dy reached a peak magnitude of $M_r=-19.2$~mag with a total radiation energy of $1.9\times10^{50}$~erg. A NIR excess emerged at late phases, and the spectral energy distribution modeling indicates the presence of carbon dust with temperatures of $1300$-$1800$~K and masses of about $10^{-5}\ M_\odot$. The spectra features were typical of long-lived Type~IIn SNe. The late time H$α$ profile exhibits a strong suppression of the red wing, providing evidence for newly formed dust. Our results suggest that the derived dust mass above may be underestimated due to optical depth effects. SN~2024dy provides an important observational case for understanding dust formation in Type~IIn SNe.

astro-ph.HE↗

SN~2018erx: A fast-evolving, dust-reddened Type Icn supernova with broad C II emission lines

We present the discovery and characterization of SN~2018erx (ZTF18abkmbpy), a fast-evolving, unusually red, interacting stripped-envelope supernova. Spectroscopically, SN~2018erx shows broad \ion{C}{2} emission with characteristic widths of $\sim\!3800$~km~s$^{-1}$, consistent with interaction with carbon-rich circumstellar material and a Type~Icn core-collapse SN classification. Photometrically, it evolves rapidly, rising from half-maximum to peak in 2.1~d and declining back in 3.1~d. Semi-analytical CSM-interaction modeling favors a compact, shell-like CSM with $M_{\rm CSM}\approx0.3\,M_\odot$, $R_0\approx0.7$~AU, and a low ejecta mass of $M_{\rm ej}\approx0.11\,M_\odot$. The radioactive yield is also small, with $M_{\rm Ni}\lesssim(3$--$5)\times10^{-3}\,M_\odot$, placing SN~2018erx at the low end of the H-poor distribution. At +29~d after peak, we detect a near-infrared excess consistent with pre-existing local circumstellar dust, with $M_{\rm d}\sim10^{-6}$--$10^{-5}\,M_\odot$. Together, the rapid evolution, strong local reddening, carbon-rich emission, and dust point to a multi-component circumstellar environment: a dense inner interaction region from enhanced pre-SN mass loss and an outer dusty layer from an earlier mass-loss episode roughly $10$--$200$~yr before core collapse. These properties favor an ultra-stripped core-collapse explosion of a low-mass He star in a binary system, with fallback-modified Wolf--Rayet collapse or merger-driven mass loss remaining possible alternatives. SN~2018erx provides rare insight into the mass-loss history of stripped-envelope SNe and suggests that dust-enshrouded explosions of this kind may be underrepresented in optical surveys.

astro-ph.HE↗

Low-Luminosity Type IIP Supernovae from the Zwicky Transient Facility Census of the Local Universe. I: Luminosity Function, Volumetric Rate

We present the luminosity function and volumetric rate of a sample of Type IIP supernovae (SNe) from the Zwicky Transient Facility Census of the Local Universe survey (CLU). This is the largest sample of Type IIP SNe from a systematic volume-limited survey to-date. The final sample includes 330 Type IIP SNe and 36 low-luminosity Type II (LLIIP) SNe with $M_{\textrm{r,peak}}>-16$ mag, which triples the literature sample of LLIIP SNe. The fraction of LLIIP SNe is $19^{+3}_{-4}\%$ of the total CLU Type IIP SNe population ($8^{+1}_{-2}\%$ of all core-collapse SNe). This implies that while LLIIP SNe likely represent the fate of core-collapse SNe of $8-12$ \Msun\ progenitors, they alone cannot account for the fate of all massive stars in this mass range. To derive an absolute rate, we estimate the ZTF pipeline efficiency as a function of the apparent magnitude and the local surface brightness. We derive a volumetric rate of $(3.9_{-0.4}^{+0.4}) \times 10^{4}\ \textrm{Gpc}^{-3}\ \textrm{yr}^{-1}$ for Type IIP SNe and $(7.3_{-0.6}^{+0.6}) \times 10^{3}\ \textrm{Gpc}^{-3}\ \textrm{yr}^{-1}$ for LLIIP SNe. Now that the rate of LLIIP SNe is robustly derived, the unresolved discrepancy between core-collapse SN rates and star-formation rates cannot be explained by LLIIP SNe alone.

astro-ph.HE↗

Low-Luminosity Type IIP Supernovae from the Zwicky Transient Facility Census of the Local Universe. II: Lightcurve Analysis

The Zwicky Transient Facility Census of the Local Universe survey yielded a sample of 330 Type IIP supernovae (SNe) with well-constrained peak luminosities. In paper I (arXiv:2502.19493), we measured their luminosity function and volumetric rate. Here (paper II), we present the largest systematic study of lightcurve properties for Type IIP SNe from a volume-limited survey, analyzing a selected subset of 129 events, including 16 low-luminosity Type IIP (LLIIP) SNe with M${r,peak} \geq -16$ mag. We find that plateau slope correlates with peak brightness, with many LLIIP SNe showing positive slopes--suggesting smaller progenitor radii and distinct density profiles compared to brighter Type IIP SNe. The plateau duration shows only a weak dependence on peak brightness, likely suggesting binary interaction. One SN exhibits a plateau-to-tail drop of >3.5 mag, consistent with an electron-capture or failed SN with very low or zero nickel mass. We derive explosion and progenitor parameters of the entire Type IIP SN sample using semi-analytical and radiation-hydrodynamical models. Based on radiation-hydrodynamical model fitting, LLIIP SNe are characterized by low nickel masses (0.001-0.025 $\mathrm{M_\odot}$), low explosion energies (0.1-0.28 $\times 10^{51}$ erg), low ejecta masses ($8.1^{+0.8}_{-1.7}$ $\mathrm{M\odot}$), and ZAMS masses below 11 $\mathrm{M_\odot}$. In comparison, the full Type IIP SN sample spans a wider range with nickel masses (0.001-0.222 $\mathrm{M_\odot}$), explosion energies (0.10-4.43 $\times 10^{51}$ erg), ejecta masses (5.4-24.8 $\mathrm{M_\odot}$), and ZAMS masses (9.3-16.7 $\mathrm{M_\odot}$). We find strong correlations between peak brightness, explosion energy, and nickel mass that extend to the low-luminosity end. We conclude that LLIIP SNe represent the faint, low-energy end of the Type IIP population and originate from the lowest-mass core-collapse progenitors.

astro-ph.HE↗

A Natural $\gtrsim 100\times$ Telescope: Discovery of the Strongly Lensed Type II SN 2025mkn at $z=1.37$

We present the discovery of SN 2025mkn, a gravitationally lensed Type II supernova. First detected as a blue transient in ZTF, 0.83$^{\prime\prime}$ from a $z=0.42$ elliptical galaxy, follow-up SNIFS/UH2.2m and LRIS/Keck spectra revealed absorption lines at $z=1.371$. Later JWST NIRCam imaging shows that the bright transient is a close pair of point sources separated by $\sim 0.07^{\prime\prime}$, and a 30 times fainter counterimage opposite the lens, for which NIRSpec reveals strong H$α$ emission also at $z=1.371$. The light curves and spectra are consistent with the Type II supernova source being magnified $\gtrsim 100$ times, with $\sim 250$ required to reconcile its luminosity with that of nearby events such as SN 2023ixf. Lens models are consistent with such high magnifications, and always show that the faint image arrived first (undetected in earlier ZTF imaging), consistent with the later spectral phase of this fainter image. A fourth image is also predicted and possibly detected in the NIRSpec data. Light-curve-based time-delay measurements are not possible due to the first image being the faintest; however, the resolved NIRSpec spectra offer a future opportunity for time-delay cosmography through supernova phase measurements.

astro-ph.CO↗

SN 2024iss: A Multi-Wavelength Exposé of a Type IIb Supernova with an Early-Time Ultraviolet Spectrum and Shock Breakout Constraints

We present multi-wavelength observations and a comprehensive analysis of the nearby (D$\sim$14 Mpc) Type IIb supernova (SN IIb) 2024iss. Observations of SN2024iss include an early ZTF detection at $\sim$40 minutes after first light and the earliest Hubble Space Telescope UV spectrum for a SN IIb to date at 7 days after first light. With the bolometric light curve and He-star models, we estimate an ejecta mass range of $\sim 1.1-3.3~M_{\odot}$ and a $^{56}\textrm{Ni}$ mass of $0.11 \pm 0.01~M_{\odot}$. We fit shock-cooling emission models to the first peak in the light curve and estimate a progenitor radius of $100-320~R_{\odot}$ and a H-rich envelope mass of $0.07-0.46~M_{\odot}$. We also compared optical/UV spectra to binary progenitor model spectra, which indicate a stripped H-rich envelope mass of $0.19-0.28~M_{\odot}$. We use early-time X-ray detections to calculate CSM densities that are consistent with a progenitor mass-loss rate of $5\times10^{-4}~M_{\odot}$ ($v_w = 100~$km/s), corresponding to a period of significant mass ejection in the final ~2-5 years before core collapse. In the UV spectrum, we observe strong Mg II emission extending to $\sim15,000 ~$km/s as well as weak P-Cygni profiles of iron-group elements (e.g., Fe, Ti, Al, Ni) present in the outer SN ejecta during the end of shock cooling phase. We find that the overall spectroscopic evolution of SN2024iss is comparable to other SNe IIb, but that the increased brightness following the initial light curve peak is likely influenced by SN ejecta-CSM interaction. Finally, optical/NIR nebular spectroscopy of SN2024iss at $\sim 260-412~$ days reveals multi-peaked forbidden line profiles of O I and Mg I] indicative of inner ejecta asymmetry and/or clumping. We demonstrate the utility of a rich, multi-wavelength dataset for constraining the progenitor systems and explosion dynamics of SNe IIb.

astro-ph.HE↗

Photometry and Spectroscopy of SN 2024pxl: A Luminosity Link Among Type Iax Supernovae

We present extensive ultraviolet to optical photometric and optical to near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopic follow-up observations of the nearby intermediate-luminosity ($M_V = -16.81\pm0.19$~mag) Type Iax supernova (SN) 2024pxl in NGC 6384. SN~2024pxl exhibits a faster light curve than the high-luminosity members of this class, and slower than low-luminosity events. The observationally well-constrained rise time of $\sim$11 days and an estimated synthesized $^{56}$Ni mass of 0.03\, M$_\odot$, based on analytical modeling of the integrated spectral energy distribution light curve, are consistent with models of the weak deflagration of a carbon-oxygen white dwarf. Our optical spectral sequence of SN~2024pxl shows weak \ion{Si}{2} lines and spectral evolution similar to other high-luminosity Type Iax SNe, but also a prominent early-time \ion{C}{2} line, like lower-luminosity Type Iax SNe. The late-time optical spectrum of SN~2024pxl closely matches that of SN~2014dt, and its NIR spectral evolution aligns with that of other well-studied, high-luminosity Type Iax SNe. The spectral-line expansion velocities of SN~2024pxl are at the lower end of the Type Iax SN velocity distribution, and the velocity distribution of iron-group elements compared to intermediate-mass elements suggests that the ejecta are mixed on large scales, as expected in pure deflagration models. SN~2024pxl exhibits characteristics intermediate between those of high-luminosity and low-luminosity Type~Iax SNe, further establishing a link across this diverse class.

astro-ph.HE↗

A Study of Two Type IIb Supernovae: SNe 2008aq and 2019gaf

We present photometric and spectroscopic studies of two core-collapse supernovae (SNe) 2008aq and 2019gaf in the optical wavelengths. Light curve and spectral sequence of both the SNe are similar to those of other Type IIb SNe. The pre-maximum spectrum of SN~2008aq showed prominent H $α$ lines, the He lines started appearing in the near maximum spectrum. The near maximum spectrum of SN~2019gaf shows shallow H$α$ absorption and He lines with almost similar strength. Both the SNe show transition from hydrogen-dominated spectra to helium-dominated spectra within a month after maximum brightness. The velocity evolution of SN~2008aq matches well with those of other well-studied Type IIb SNe, while SN~2019gaf shows higher velocities. Close to maximum light, the H $α$ and He I line velocities of SN~2019gaf are $\sim$ 2000 km sec$^{-1}$ and $\sim$ 4000 km sec$^{-1}$ higher than other well-studied Type IIb SNe. Semi-analytical modeling indicates SN~2019gaf to be a more energetic explosion with a smaller ejecta mass than SN~2008aq. The zero-age main-sequence (ZAMS) mass of the progenitor estimated using the nebular spectra of SN~2008aq ranges between 13 to 20 M$_\odot$, while for SN~2019gaf, the inferred ZAMS mass is between 13 to 25 M$_\odot$. The [O I] to [Ca II] lines flux ratio favors a less massive progenitor star in a binary system for both the SNe.

astro-ph.HE↗

Hydrogen-Rich to Stripped-Envelope:Observational Continuity and Biases in CCSNe

Although historically classified into discrete subclasses, there is growing evidence that indicates that core-collapse supernovae (CCSNe) categories often overlap, reflecting continuous variations in progenitor structure, mass-loss history, and circumstellar environments rather than strictly distinct channels. In this review, we explore the proposed continua that link hydrogen-rich Type II SNe to stripped-envelope explosions (IIb-Ib-Ic), and that extend further into interaction-dominated and superluminous events. We discuss the physical processes-stellar winds, binary interaction, eruptive outbursts, and circumstellar interaction-that may produce graded outcomes across classes, while highlighting where observational evidence supports or challenges smooth transitions. We propose that CCSNe are better viewed as a multidimensional continuum of explosion outcomes, where traditional subclasses act as reference points rather than strict boundaries. Future progress will rely on large, homogeneous datasets and advanced modeling to disentangle true evolutionary sequences from apparent overlaps, ultimately connecting progenitor pathways to the observed diversity of explosions

astro-ph.HE↗

Discovery of SN 2025wny: a Strongly Gravitationally Lensed Superluminous Supernova at z = 2.01

We present the discovery of SN 2025wny (ZTF25abnjznp/GOTO25gtq) and spectroscopic classification of this event as the first gravitationally lensed Type I superluminous supernovae (SLSN-I). Deep ground-based follow-up observations resolves four images of the supernova with ~1.7" angular separation from the main lens galaxy, each coincident with the lensed images of a background galaxy seen in archival imaging of the field. Spectroscopy of the brightest point image shows narrow features matching absorption lines at a redshift of z = 2.011 and broad features matching those seen in superluminous SNe with Far-UV coverage. We infer a magnification factor of 20 to 50 for the brightest image in the system, based on photometric and spectroscopic comparisons to other SLSNe-I. SN 2025wny demonstrates that gravitationally-lensed SNe are in reach of ground-based facilities out to redshifts far higher than what has been previously assumed, and provide a unique window into studying distant supernovae, internal properties of dwarf galaxies, as well as for time-delay cosmography.

astro-ph.CO↗

Surrogate models for lightcurves and photosphere properties of Type II supernovae

Inferences on the properties Type II supernovae (SNe) can provide significant insights into the lives and deaths of the astrophysical population of massive stars and potentially provide measurements of luminosity distance, independent of the distance ladder. Here, we introduce surrogate models for the photospheric properties and lightcurves of Type II SNe trained on a large grid of simulations from the radiation hydrodynamics code, {\sc stella}. The trained model can accurately and efficiently ($\sim 30$ms) predict the lightcurves and properties of Type II SNe within a large parameter space of progenitor ($10-18 M_{\odot}$ at ZAMS) and nickel masses ($0.001-0.3M_{\odot}$), progenitor mass-loss rate ($10^{-5}-10^{-1}~M_{\odot}$yr$^{-1}$), CSM radius ($1-10\times10^{14}$cm), and SN explosion energies ($0.5-5 \times 10^{51}$erg). We validate this model through inference on lightcurves and photosphere properties drawn directly from the original {\sc stella} simulations not included in training. In particular, for a synthetic Type II SNe observed within the 10-year LSST survey, we find we can measure the progenitor and nickel masses with $\approx 9\%$ and $\approx 25\%$ precision, respectively, when fitting the photometric data while accounting for the uncertainty in the surrogate model itself. Meanwhile, from real observations of SN~2004et, SN~2012aw, and SN~2017gmr we infer a progenitor ZAMS mass of $12.15_{-1.06}^{+1.03} M_{\odot}$, $10.61_{-0.32}^{+0.37} M_{\odot}$, $10.4 \pm 0.3 M_{\odot}$, respectively. We discuss systematic uncertainties from our surrogate modelling approach and likelihood approaches to account for these uncertainties. We further discuss future extensions to the model to enable stronger constraints on properties of Type II SNe and their progenitors, and applications of our surrogate modelling approach to other transients.

astro-ph.HE↗

JWST and Ground-based Observations of the Type Iax Supernovae SN 2024pxl and SN 2024vjm: Evidence for Weak Deflagration Explosions

We present panchromatic optical $+$ near-infrared (NIR) $+$ mid-infrared (MIR) observations of the intermediate-luminosity Type Iax supernova (SN Iax) 2024pxl and the extremely low-luminosity SN Iax 2024vjm. JWST observations provide unprecedented MIR spectroscopy of SN Iax, spanning from $+$11 to $+$42 days past maximum light. We detect forbidden emission lines in the MIR at these early times while the optical and NIR are dominated by permitted lines with an absorption component. Panchromatic spectra at early times can thus simultaneously show nebular and photospheric lines, probing both inner and outer layers of the ejecta. We identify spectral lines not seen before in SN Iax, including [Mg II] 4.76 $μ$m, [Mg II] 9.71 $μ$m, [Ne II] 12.81 $μ$m, and isolated O I 2.76 $μ$m that traces unburned material. Forbidden emission lines of all species are centrally peaked with similar kinematic distributions, indicating that the ejecta are well mixed in both SN 2024pxl and SN 2024vjm, a hallmark of pure deflagration explosion models. Radiative transfer modeling of SN 2024pxl shows good agreement with a weak deflagration of a near-Chandrasekhar-mass white dwarf, but additional IR flux is needed to match the observations, potentially attributable to a surviving remnant. Similarly, we find SN 2024vjm is also best explained by a weak deflagration model, despite the large difference in luminosity between the two supernovae. Future modeling should push to even weaker explosions and include the contribution of a bound remnant. Our observations demonstrate the diagnostic power of panchromatic spectroscopy for unveiling explosion physics in thermonuclear supernovae.

astro-ph.HE↗

SN 2023xgo: Helium-rich Type Icn or Carbon-Flash Type Ibn supernova?

We present observations of SN~2023xgo, a transitional Type Ibn/Icn supernova, from $-5.6$ to $+63$~days relative to the $r$-band peak. Early spectra show C~III $λ5696$ emission reminiscent of Type~Icn SNe, which later gives way to Type~Ibn features. The He~I velocities ($1800$--$10{,}000$~km~s$^{-1}$) and pseudo-equivalent widths are among the highest in the Ibn/Icn class. The light curve declines at $0.14$~mag~d$^{-1}$ until $+30$~days, consistent with SNe~Ibn/Icn and slower than fast transients. SN~2023xgo is the faintest in our SN~Ibn sample ($M_r=-17.65\pm0.04$) but shows typical color and host properties. Semi-analytical modeling of the light curve suggests a compact CSM shell ($\sim 10^{12}$--$10^{13}$~cm) and a mass-loss rate of $10^{-4}$--$10^{-3}$~$M_{\odot}$~yr$^{-1}$, with CSM and ejecta masses of $\sim 0.22$ and $0.12$~$M_{\odot}$, respectively. Post-maximum light-curve and spectral modeling favor a $\sim 3$~$M_{\odot}$ helium-star progenitor with extended ($\sim 10^{15}$~cm), stratified CSM (density exponent $n=2.9$) and a mass-loss rate of $0.1$--$2.7$~$M_{\odot}$~yr$^{-1}$. These two mass-loss regimes imply a radially varying CSM, shaped by asymmetry or temporal changes in the progenitor's mass loss. This behavior is compatible with both binary and single-star evolution. We argue that the early Icn-like features arise from hot carbon ionization and fade to Ibn-like signatures as the ejecta and CSM cool, making SN~2023xgo a rare probe of the connection between SNe~Icn, SNe~Ibn, and Ibn events with ejecta signatures.

astro-ph.HE↗