Seminar: Magnetic fields of M dwarfs
- Date: 20 March 2025, 14:00–15:00
- Location: Ångström Laboratory, 90101Å
- Type: Seminar
- Lecturer: Irene Amateis & Oleg Kochukhov
- Organiser: Division of Astronomy and Space Physics, Department of Physics and Astronomy
- Contact person: Simon Barton
M-dwarf stars are the most common type of stars in the galaxy and are key targets in the search for habitable exoplanets. Their strong magnetic fields play a crucial role in shaping stellar atmospheres, influencing stellar winds, and impacting the environments of orbiting planets. Understanding these magnetic fields is essential for advancing both stellar astrophysics and the study of planetary habitability. Here we will present a PhD project that will focus on investigating the magnetic field properties of M dwarfs using Zeeman broadening techniques in high-resolution spectroscopy. By analysing spectral line broadening caused by magnetic fields, the project aims to measure the mean magnetic field strengths and field strength distributions for various M dwarfs with the emphasis on stars hosting habitable rocky planets. These magnetic measurements will provide valuable insights into the magnetic activity of these stars and their influence on exoplanetary environments.
---
We shall leave for lunch at around 12:15. There will be fika after the seminar.