Core-collapse supernova simulations and collective neutrino flavor conversions: current status and prospects

Abstract

In this review, we survey neutrino quantum kinetics in core-collapse supernovae (CCSNe), with emphasis on collective flavor conversion and its possible role in the explosion dynamics. We summarize the physical ingredients of modern CCSN simulations, with particular emphasis on neutrino transport and the detailed neutrino distributions relevant for flavor evolution. We then discuss the theoretical framework of collective neutrino flavor instabilities and conversions, together with insights from analytical and numerical studies. We also review ongoing efforts to incorporate flavor conversion into global CCSN models and the challenges of linking microscopic quantum kinetic processes with macroscopic dynamics. We briefly discuss how collective flavor conversion may affect the interpretation of the SN 1987A neutrino signal and of a future Galactic event. We conclude by outlining future directions toward a self-consistent treatment of neutrino flavor evolution in CCSN simulations.