Fast Radio Bursts and Extreme Electromagnetism (February 28, 2025)

In this 52-minute lecture, explore the fascinating world of Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs), the strongest electromagnetic waves observed in the universe. Learn how these powerful signals are likely generated by magnetized neutron stars and what they reveal about extreme cosmic phenomena. Discover the physics behind ultrastrong electromagnetic waves, examining their vulnerability, interactions with surrounding media, and potential generation mechanisms. Delve into how similar electromagnetic phenomena can occur in tight binary systems and accompany gravitational waves during neutron star mergers. Presented by Andrei Boloborodov at the Simons Foundation, this talk offers insights into cutting-edge astrophysical research on some of the universe's most energetic events.