Title: Probing Extreme Physics with Compact Objects

Speaker: Dong Lai, Professor of Astronomy, Cornell University

Location: Room 111, Physics Building

Time: 14:00-15:00p, Jan. 10th, 2013

Abstract:

Compact objects (white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes) are associated with some of the most exotic phenomena and environments in the universe. They have been observed in all electromagnetic wave bands, from radio to gamma rays, and are likely to be detected in gravitational waves in this decade. Their strong gravities, high densities and magnetic fields provide a unique avenue for exploring physics under extreme conditions. In this talk, I will highlight recent progress and discuss future prospects in the astrophysics of compact objects, with focus on neutron stars.

Biography:

Dong Lai was a physics undergraduate student at the University of Science and Technology of China. He received his Ph.D. in theoretical astrophysics from Cornell University in 1994, and was a postdoctoral fellow at Caltech. In 1997, he joined the faculty of the Astronomy Department at Cornell, where he is now a full Professor. His current research is in theoretical astrophysics, focusing on high energy phenomena, compact objects (neutron stars, black holes and white dwarfs), exoplanets and astrophysical fluid dynamics in general.