Multi-Wavelength Observations to Probe the Ejecta and Energetics of Nova Explosions
Laura Chomiuk - Michigan State University
When imagining a nuclear explosion, we often picture strong, spherical shock waves, like a bomb or supernova; however, nature's most common thermonuclear explosions look nothing like this, showing delayed and multiple phases of mass ejection that can last for months after the nuclear fuel is ignited. These most common explosions are novae---thermonuclear runaways on the surfaces of accreting white dwards---and their complexities are best revelaed with an intensive multi-wavelength observational program highlighting radio and X-ray data. I will discuss our recent results from just such a program, featuring observations from the upgraded Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, and spotlighting sources like recent novae with giant companions and novae that have recently been detected in GeV gamma rays (an emission process that was not predicted and remains an intriguing mystery). The implications for Type a supernova progenitors will also be discussed.
Coffee and Donuts served at 3:30 in 4054 McPherson Laboratory
