“Probing Compact Objects with Gravitational Waves”

The detection of gravitational waves by ground-based interferometric detectors has by now revealed a previously unobserved population of merging black holes and has firmly linked the mergers of neutron stars with gamma-ray bursts and heavy element production. I will review the most current gravitational-wave discoveries, the measured physical properties of the compact objects involved and how these measurements enable us to probe the astrophysics of compact objects, and constrain models of massive-star evolution. I will conclude with our expectations for further discoveries as the sensitivity of detectors continues to improve.

Please note: Should you require any reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access and opportunity related to this event please contact Stacy Tiburzi at 734-764-3440 or stibu@umich.edu.