X-ray Spectroscopy of Ejecta and Compact Objects in Supernova Remnants

Abstract

This thesis is devoted to the analysis of X-ray observations of supernova remnants (SNRs), exploiting the diagnostic potential provided by X-ray spectroscopy and complementing it with the synthesis of X-ray observables from multi-dimensional hydrodynamic (HD) and magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) models. I tackle three open issues: the search for a spectral signature to correctly recover abundance and mass values of the stellar fragments ejected in the SN explosion through their X-ray spectra; the study of anisotropies and the origin of overionized plasma in the mixed-morphology SNR IC 443; the quest for the elusive compact object in SN 1987A.