Binary Paths to Type Ia Supernovae Explosions (IAU S281)

IAU Symposium 281 assesses the state of searches for progenitor systems of Type Ia supernovae explosions, and describes progress toward the solution of this puzzle. Topics covered include new surveys, studies of white dwarfs, binary evolution models, supernova explosions, their light curves and supernova remnants.

Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) are bright, distinctive explosions that are effective tools to study the expansion history of the Universe. Given their importance, it is remarkable that we still do not know the exact nature or natures of the astrophysical systems that generate them. IAU Symposium 281 assesses the state of searches for the progenitor systems and describes progress toward the solution of the so-called Type Ia progenitor puzzle. This long-standing problem has proved difficult to solve, because it involves so many areas at the frontiers of astrophysics. Topics covered include: work on new surveys; studies of white dwarfs, accretion binaries, and related phenomena; binary evolution models and different ways to test them; and SNe Ia explosions, light curves and supernova remnants. This volume presents all sides of the ongoing debates, benefiting researchers and graduate students working on Type Ia supernovae, close binary evolution, and binary populations.