Spectral Analysis of SN 1987A

We examine the current status of the spectral analysis of SN1987A during its early stages. Issues of the shock breakout and UV flash, the density and chemical structure, and masses of different layers are discussed. A decade later, several aspects need a fresh look and interpretation. We summarize what questions have been answered and where some results disagree. Unresolved problems such as the excess of s-process elements and influence of asphericity are addressed. Finally, SN1987A is considered as a test case for using Type II as distance indicators via the Baade-Wesselink method.