Exploring Supernova Remnant Physics in the Lab

OVERVIEW

Supernova remnants (SNRs) are the dramatic aftermath of supernova (SN) explosions, marking the final stages of massive stars' lives. These remnants display a wide array of complex morphologies shaped by various physical processes. The SN explosion sends a shockwave into the surrounding interstellar medium (ISM), accelerating charged particles to extreme energies and producing non-thermal emission across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to X-rays and γ-rays. Turbulence amplifies magnetic fields within SNRs, influencing both particle acceleration and the remnant's overall energy distribution. The resulting structures—often characterized by filaments, shells, and bubbles—provide key insights into the SN explosion and the late evolutionary phases of massive stars. Studying SNRs allows scientists to probe critical phenomena such as shock dynamics, magnetic field amplification, plasma instabilities, turbulence, and cosmic ray production.

The proposed workshop seeks to create a collaborative platform for astrophysicists and laser-plasma experimentalists to combine their expertise and advance SNR research. By bringing together these distinct but complementary communities, the workshop aims to address pivotal questions related to SNR physics, including particle acceleration, magnetic field amplification, plasma instabilities, turbulence, and cosmic ray transport. Astrophysicists will offer theoretical insights and observational data, guiding laser-plasma experimentalists in designing experiments that mimic the extreme conditions found within SNRs. In return, experimentalists will provide valuable plasma data and insights, contributing to the validation and refinement of astrophysical models. This synergistic approach will drive forward research at the intersection of astrophysics and laser-plasma experiments, deepening our understanding of SNRs and paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in the broader realm of astrophysical phenomena.

WORKSHOP FORMAT

The workshop will feature keynote presentations by leading astrophysicists and laser-plasma experimentalists, showcasing the latest research and highlighting potential synergies between the two fields. Interactive panel discussions and collaborative breakout sessions will foster engagement and idea exchange, creating a dynamic environment for collaboration.

EXPECTED OUTCOMES

The workshop aims to establish a lasting foundation for interdisciplinary collaborations between astrophysicists and laser-plasma experimentalists, forming a robust research network. Attendees will gain insight into cutting-edge research, explore new research directions, and identify collaborative opportunities to advance SNR studies. A white paper summarizing key discussions will be published on arXiv, serving as a resource for ongoing collaboration among participants and researchers unable to attend the event, encouraging continued interaction beyond the workshop itself.