Organized by: Prof. Lu Lu
Astronomy Science Lunch (Pizza served at 12, talk starts at 12:15)
From Cosmology to Galaxy Evolution and Star Formation with Line Intensity Mapping
Date: Monday, March 18th
Time: 12:00 pm - 1:15 pm
Place: 4421 Sterling Hall
Speaker: Adam Beardsley, Arizona State University
Abstract: Line Intensity Mapping (LIM) is an emerging observational technique with applications ranging from cosmology and fundamental physics to astrophysical phenomena that drive galaxy evolution and star formation. By sacrificing resolution in favor of wide-field integrated measurements, LIM experiments are sensitive to the aggregate contributions of sources of all magnitudes and diffuse structures. Probing narrow atomic and molecular transitions allow for three dimensional measurements which will unlock many orders of magnitude more modes compared to those available from the Cosmic Microwave Background. The enormous observational volume probed (~80% of thee observable universe) will yield unprecedented insights into early-Universe inflation, the interactions between galaxies and their environment during the Epoch of Reionization (EoR), and the cosmic history of star formation.
I will discuss the current and planned experiments that will fulfill the promise of LIM, with a focus on high redshift 21cm experiments to probe the EoR. Last year the EDGES collaboration made a first tentative detection of a 21cm absorption profile from the Cosmic Dawn, and its unexpected depth shook loose myriad theories related to dark matter-baryon interactions and excess radio background. This watershed of explanations foreshadows the excitement to come as LIM experiments begin to push the frontiers of cosmology and astrophysics.
Host: Snezana Stanimirovic & Peter Timbie
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