Prof. Bryan Gaensler (Harvard University)

Small Stars in a Big Backyard: Neutron Stars as Probes of their Environments - Prof. Bryan Gaensler Colloquium

ATNF Marsfield Lecture Theatre

Abstract

Neutron stars are extraordinary physical laboratories, providing beautiful experimental data on everything from general relativity to the equation of state of degenerate matter. But because the properties of neutron stars can be so accurately measured, these objects can also act as exquisite probes for studying the complicated astrophysical environments in which they are embedded. I will present a multi-wavelength observational programme, which demonstrates the new insights which neutron stars are now providing into the physics of supernova explosions, the structure of relativistic shocks, and the properties of the diffuse interstellar medium.