Heidelberg University

An introduction to gravitational-wave astrophysics

Pau Amaro Seoane, Universitat Politècnica de València

Abstract:

In this course we will have a succinct introduction to gravitational waves from the standpoint of astrophysics: We will investigate which are the most promising and interesting sources of radiation for existing and upcoming observatories in the framework of relativistic stellar dynamics. In particular, we will study the formation of supermassive black hole binaries after two galaxies crash, and how they evolve down to sub parsec distances, as well as the difficulties that the black holes have to overcome to start emitting efficiently gravitational radiation. We will also address in detail the gravitational capture of a compact object, typically a stellar mass black hole, by a supermassive one, in a process called an extreme-mass ratio inspiral. The small object can be regarded as a camera taking snapshots of space and time around a supermassive black hole, and is a unique probe of general relativity in the strong regime. Since these systems form in dense stellar environments, we will use our own Galactic Centre as a testbed that will allow us to understand their formation and evolution.

The speaker will present his course in online fashion only.