Surprises in the theory of core-collapse supernova explosions

We summarize some provocative new ideas that have emerged from our multidimensional radiation hydrodynamic simulations of the explosions of the cores of massive stars. We see the excitation of core g-modes that emit sufficient acoustic power to energize an anisotropic blast. The core continues to radiate sound as long as it is needed. There is simultaneously accretion on one side and explosion from another. However, the acoustic-powered mechanism requires a significant delay and will be aborted if another mechanism, such as the neutrino-driven mechanism, succeeds earlier. Whether that happens is the subject of vigorous research. Here, first we discuss the current status of the neutrino mechanism and then follow with a summary of the main features of the acoustic mechanism.