Dynamical Studies and Strong-field Tests using Radio Pulsars

Emmanuel Fonseca

University of British Columbia

Radio pulsars often serve as unique and exquisite probes of gravitational interactions and system formation mechanisms within different types of orbital systems. I will mainly discuss a recent, comprehensive study of PSR B1534+12, a 37.9-ms pulsar in a 10.1-hr orbit with another neutron star. Such relativistic systems are highly suitable for resolving many strong-field effects that can be used to test gravitational theory and uniquely derive geometric and inertial properties. I will also discuss an ongoing analysis of PSR B1620-26, an 11-ms pulsar in a hierarchical triple system with a Jupiter-mass companion located within the globular cluster M4, as well as the observational and theoretical challenges posed by this system.

Date:	Wednesday, 13 August 2014
Time:	16:00
Where:	McGill University
	Ernest Rutherford Physics Building, R.E. Bell Conference Room (room 103)
Contact:	Robert Rutledge