The Multi-D Effects of Jets on Neutron Star Merger Light Curves

When two neutron stars merge, they can launch an energetic polar outflow known as a jet. If there is material surrounding the merger remnant when the jet is launched, it will first propagate through the ejecta. This jet-ejecta interaction can influence the optical and infrared signals we see from such events. Using Sedona, a Monte Carlo radiation transport code, we examine the viewing angle-dependence of the signatures of this interaction, as well as the relative influence of jet shock and radioactive heating on the observations.