2017MNRAS.464.4415C

This paper explores the origin of the enigmatic line profiles of the extremely luminous Type IIn supernova, SN 2006gy, on day 96. Among the conceivable possibilities, the most preferred is the model that suggests there are holes in the optically thick cool dense shell (CDS). The line radiation emitted at the inner side of the opaque CDS escapes through the holes, thus producing an unusual line profile with the emission shifted redward. The holes could emerge as a result of the vigorous Rayleigh-Taylor instability, leading to the CDS fragmentation. The model light curve with the CDS fragmentation is shown to be consistent with the SN 2006gy bolometric light curve.