2019 Argonne Leadership Computing Facility Science Report

Abstract

On the cover: A research team led by PrincetonUniversity is using the ALCF's Theta supercomputer to perform large-scale 3D simulations aimed at determining the mechanism of core-collapse supernova explosions. Depicted is the neutrino-driven roiling convection of the nuclear material behind the newly reenergized supernova shock wave that surrounds the newly birthed neutron star, just hundreds of milliseconds after shock revival. The isosurfaces are of specific entropy and the coloring follows the electron fraction. The pathlines trace infalling parcels of matter caught up in the turbulence of the explosion. The neutrino-heated turbulent bubbles help drive the supernova explosion shock wave outwards.