Physics and Astronomy Colloquium
Observations of Compact Objects with the Imaging X-Ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), and Upcoming and Proposed Balloon-Borne Astroparticle Experiments
Presented by Prof. Henric Krawczynski (Washington Univ)
The Imaging X-Ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) is a joint US-Italian mission that enables highly sensitive polarimetry observations of bright galactic and extragalactic sources within the 2-8 keV X-ray band. In this talk, I will focus on the IXPE findings since its launch in 2021, particularly the observations of mass accreting stellar mass black holes, and magnetars. The black hole observations allow us to study the processes that lead to mass accretion onto black holes. The magnetar observations shed light on the properties of the neutron star surface and atmosphere, the configuration of the magnetic fields surrounding the neutron star, as well as on properties of the quantum vacuum. I will close by describing several upcoming and planned balloon borne astroparticle physics missions that I am working on.
3:30 pm, Friday, February 23, 2024
PAIS-1100, PAIS
Individuals with disabilities who need an auxiliary aid or service to attend or participate in P&A events should contact the Physics Department (phone: 505-277-2616, email: physics@unm.edu) well in advance to ensure your needs are accomodated. Event handouts can be provided in alternative accessible formats upon request. Please contact the Physics front office if you need written information in an alternative format.
A schedule of talks within the Department of Physics and Astronomy is available on the P&A web site at http://physics.unm.edu/pandaweb/events/index.php