Examining the Universe through the Lens of Ground-Based Gamma-Ray Detection Arrays

Distinguished Professor Petra H. Huentemeyer
Department of Physics, Michigan Technological University

Significant advancements in electronics, computing, and communication technology have led to remarkable improvements in the sensitivity and image resolution of gamma-ray sky surveys using ground-based particle detector arrays (PDAs). This has led to groundbreaking, sometimes paradigm shifting discoveries in astrophysics, and unprecedented tests of fundamental laws of physics governing our Universe at the extremes. In addition to probing cosmic particle accelerators and cosmic-ray transportation and distribution, studying astrophysical gamma rays allows us to tackle fundamental questions such as the location and nature of dark matter and testing the limits of Lorentz Invariance in phase space that are not accessible to terrestrial accelerators. To this end, we are planning to build a next-generation gamma-ray observatory in the Southern Hemisphere with an unprecedented view of the Galactic Center. I will present high impact results from existing PDAs, like the High Altitude Water Cherenkov (HAWC) Observatory in Mexico and the Large High Altitude Air Shower Observatory (LHAASO) in China and describe the ongoing research & design for the Southern Wide-Field Gamma-Ray Observatory (SWGO) to be built in South America.

There will be a reception immediately preceding the colloquium at 3 p.m. in 316 VAN.