Vivek Venkatraman Krishnan (Swinburne University of Technology)

Vivek Venkatraman Krishnan Colloquium: Gravitational Dynamics in PSR J1141-6545

Marsfield lecture theatre

Abstract

Pulsars in relativistic binary systems are natural laboratories to understand the gravitational dynamics near strongly gravitating bodies. PSR J1141-6545 is a unique relativistic binary pulsar composed of a non-recycled pulsar and an older white-dwarf. Being a gravitationally asymmetric system, it provides a rare opportunity for testing distinct predictions from alternative theories of gravity such as scalar-tensor gravity. In this talk, I will detail the results from the ongoing 18-year old timing campaign on this pulsar ranging from geodetic precession, through binary evolution to tests of theories of gravity. I will also touch on future prospects of better understanding this system with the Ultra wideband receiver.