Reaction rates that limit $^{44}$Ti from core-collapse supernovae as dense matter constraint: Shocking results

Recent observational advances have enabled high resolution mapping of $^{44}$Ti in core-collapse supernova (CCSN) remnants. Comparisons between observations and 3D models provide stringent constraints on the CCSN mechanism. However, recent work has identified several uncertain nuclear reaction rates that influence $^{44}$Ti and $^{56}$Ni production in model calculations of shock-driven nucleosynthesis. We evolved 15M$_{\odot}$, 18M$_{\odot}$, 22M$_{\odot}$ and 25M$_{\odot}$ stars from ZAMS to CCSN in MESA (Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics) and investigated previously identified sensitivities of $^{44}$Ti and $^{56}$Ni production in CCSN to varied reaction rates. I will present our final results of this sensitivity study. I will also briefly discuss ongoing experimental work motivated by this study namely a direct cross section measurement of $^{39}$K(p,$\gamma$)$^{40}$Ca.