Astrophysical theory for stellar evolution (including the endpoints of evolution such as supernovae) has progressed to the point that one can now study previously parametrized physics (such as the use of mixing length theory for convectively-driven turbulent mixing) through a combination of direct numerical simulations and models. A key step in validating the use of simulations is the use of appropriate laboratory experiments as test beds for the simulations. I will illustrate such work by describing the progress in using numerical simulations to understand the physics of nuclear flashes in supernovae, carried out under the aegis of the ASCI/Alliances Flash Center.

ANL Physics Division Colloquium Schedule