Simple perspectives on SN 1987A.

Theoretical problems concerning the bolometric and gamma-ray light curves of SN 1987A are discussed. The analytic models of Arnett (1982) are extended to include the effects of recombination in the ejecta. Calculations are performed to construct a bolometric light curve which agrees with observations at times above 20 days after explosion. The gamma-ray light curve of the supernova is examined and a framework is developed for calculating the radiative transfer of gamma-rays from the radioactive source. In addition, consideration is given to the problem of classifying SN 1987A, the initial detection of hard X-rays by the Ginga satellite, and the presence of neutrinos in the supernova ejecta.