Speaker: Greg Salvesen (LANL)

Host: Jake Simon

Title:  Black Hole Accretion Geometry in X-ray Binaries

Abstract: X-ray binaries reveal the evolution of accreting black holes in real time, making it possible to study black hole phenomena and apply insights to analogous systems. Unfortunately, the X-ray emitting structures that channel gas onto the black hole cannot be imaged. Instead, X-ray astronomers look to spectral, timing, and polarimetry data for clues about the dynamic geometry that shapes accreting black holes. I will present my group’s research into the accretion geometry of X-ray binaries to address several ongoing questions: How are accretion and ejection connected? How reliable are black hole spin measurements? How do binary systems like these form and evole over time? I will also talk about my career path, highlighting the connection between astrophysics and national security, plus opportunities for students and postdocs at national labs.

Bio: Greg Salvesen works at the interface of astrophysics theory and observations, specializing in disk-accreting black holes and stellar binaries. His career trajectory to staff scientist at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico included a postdoc position at UCSB, graduate school at CU Boulder, and undergraduate education at UMich.