Supernova Science with an Advanced Compton Telescope

Abstract

Gamma-ray line emission is a direct probe of the nucleosynthesis that occurs in Type Ia supernovae. In this work we describe the wealth of information obtainable from observations of this emission. Advanced Compton telescope designs are being studied by the Naval Research Laboratory, with the goal being the construction of a telescope which would be capable of detecting SNe Ia to distances in excess of 100 Mpc. We describe the instrument capabilities and the design issues that are being addressed. We assume a SN Ia rate and quantify the frequency at which an advanced Compton telescope could detect, discriminate between, and diagnose Type Ia supernovae. From these estimates, we argue that an advanced Compton telescope would be a powerful astrophysical tool.