2024-12-19 Abstract
Title: Probing the Inner Workings of the Universe's Most Luminous Galaxies via Strong Gravitational Lensing
Speaker: Daniel Wang (UMASS)
Date: December 19 at 14:30
Location: R521, General Building II
Abstract:
Hyperluminous infrared galaxies (HyLIRGs) represent the most luminous galaxies in the Universe. These extreme objects provide a unique opportunity to probe massive galaxy formation processes at cosmic noon. This talk will introduce our survey of 30 gravitationally lensed dusty star-forming galaxies from the Planck All-Sky Survey. Taking advantage of gravitational lensing, we have obtained an unprecedented view of the properties of these young galaxies through extensive multi-wavelength observations. Our recent X-ray observations of three HyLIRGs have been particularly revelatory in revealing the underlying high-energy phenomena and processes in the galaxies. Some show clear evidence for AGNs, while others exhibit a stunning overproduction of high-mass X-ray binaries. New questions arise about the unique conditions that drive this intense binary production and the role of AGNs. Our survey highlights the immense potential of gravitational telescopes combined with multi-wavelength studies to unravel the inner workings of extreme star-forming galaxies in the early Universe.