Series: Astronomy Colloquium
Date: Wednesday 17-Feb-2021
Time: 16:00-17:00 (4:00-5:00 pm)
Location: Zoom
Speaker: Dr. Bing Zhang (UNLV)
Title: The Physical Mechanisms of Fast Radio Bursts
Fast radio bursts (FRBs) are cosmological millisecond-duration bursts in the radio band. Recent observations of the Galactic FRB 200428 suggest that magnetars can produce FRBs. In this talk, I will first review the observational facts of FRBs and then turn to discuss their physical origins in reference of two related astrophysical phenomena, radio pulsars and gamma-ray bursts. I will discuss observational evidence and theoretical modeling of of pulsar-like radiation mechanisms for FRBs, as well as a possible type of “slow radio bursts” from Galactic magnetars which may arise from FRBs viewed off-beam. Several open questions in the field regarding repeaters vs. non-repeaters, as well as whether there are engines other than magnetars will be discussed in the end.
Colloquia for the Fall 2020 semester will be held on zoom. Contact Dr. Leslie Sage for details.
Colloquium Organizer:
Dr. Leslie Sage
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.
