Events in Physics
Astronomy Seminar
Paul O'Brien
(University of Leicester)
Title: The prompt emission and progenitors of Gamma-Ray Bursts
Abstract: One of the most important discoveries about GRBs made using the Swift satellite has been the regular observation of emission suggesting complex central engine activity. I will show how the observed light curves place constraints on the standard emission model involving shocks in a relativistic jet and how the data can be used to test whether we are seeing emission powered by a magnetar rather than a black hole. I will conclude by briefly outlining upcoming future facilities for the study of GRBs.