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Abstract: The gravitational deflection of light provided one of the first observational confirmations of general relativity. Now I am considering how gravitational lensing can provide a stronger and more fundamental test of Einstein's theory, and of intriguing new alternatives. I will introduce a rigorous and comprehensive analytical framework for black hole lensing, and use it to make concrete predictions that are testable with current or near-future technology. Here are two examples: (1) In post-post-Newtonian theories of gravity, there are universal relations among lensing observables. Observed violations of these relations would falsify all PPN models in one fell swoop. (2) In braneworld gravity, there could be many primordial black holes in our Solar System that would be detectable via "attolensing" of gamma ray bursts.
Colloquia are usually preceded by coffee and followed by an informal reception (both in room CSS 0254). Anyone interested in having lunch or talking with the speaker should contact either of the colloquium coordinators (see below). The hour immediately after lunch will normally be reserved for the speaker to talk to graduate students. Students are urged to contact the coordinator to arrange this.
Request colloquia announcements by e-mail:
coll-request@astro.umd.edu
Colloquium Organizer:
Massimo Ricotti (301) 405-5097
Special accommodations for individuals with disabilities can be made by calling (301) 405-3001. It would be appreciated if we are notified at least one week in advance.
Parking for visitors is available in the Cashier-Attended Parking Lot at the intersection of Paint Branch & Technology Drive. It is a 5-10 minute walk from the parking lot to the Computer & Space Sciences building. (The map shows the parking lot in the bottom center and the CSS building in the top right.)
There are a limited number of parking meters in Lot DD by the CSS building; there are no parking meters in the Regents Dr. Parking Garage (B/RR/5). Parking at non-metered spaces in Lot DD and the parking garage is free after 4 pm and on weekends.
More information is available from the Department of Transportation Services.
Parking information for Observatory events can be found here.
Department of Astronomy, University of Maryland College Park, MD 20742-2421 Phone: (301) 405-3001 FAX: (301) 314-9067 Comments and questions may be directed to webmaster@astro.umd.edu
This page was automatically generated on:
11-Oct-2006.
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