Supernovae as Probes of Extra Dimensions

Abstract

Since the dawn of the new millennium, there has been a revived interest in the concept of extra dimensions.In this scenario all the standard model matter and gauge fields are confined to the 4 dimensions and only gravity can escape to higher dimensions of the universe.This idea can be tested using table-top experiments, collider experiments, astrophysical or cosmological observations. The main astrophysical constraints come from the cooling rate of supernovae, neutron stars, red giants and the sun. In this article, we consider the energy loss mechanism of SN1987A and study the constraints it places on the number and size of extra dimensions and the higher dimensional Planck scale.