Session: Stars, Planets and the Interstellar Medium
Name: Mr. Alexandros Tsouros (IA-FORTH & Univ. of Crete)
Coauthors:
Edenhofer Gordian (Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics)
Enßlin Torsten (Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics)
Mastorakis Michalis (Institute of Astrophysics - FORTH)
Pavlidou Vasiliki (Institute of Astrophysics - FORTH)
Type: Oral
Title: 3D Galactic Magnetic Field Reconstruction Using Local Measurements
Abstract:
The Galactic magnetic field (GMF) is pivotal to our understanding of cosmology and high-energy astrophysics. Comprehensive knowledge of its 3D structure is vital for correcting the impact of the Galaxy on the observed polarisation of the cosmic microwave background (CMB). However, our understanding of this structure remains limited due to the scarcity of local measurements and the dependence on line-of-sight (LoS) integrated observations.
In this talk, we introduce an innovative method for 3D reconstruction of the GMF using principles of Information Field Theory and Bayesian inference. Upcoming stellar optopolarimetric surveys, such as PASIPHAE, along with Gaia data on stellar parallaxes, are expected to provide local measurements of the GMF in the near future. We simulate these anticipated sparse and local GMF measurements to reconstruct the GMF in regions of the Galaxy where local data can be obtained. This approach presents a promising avenue for unravelling the intricate local structure of the GMF and assessing its influence on various astrophysical processes.
To evaluate this method, we will investigate its applicability in high-energy astrophysics, specifically by tracing the propagation of ultra-high energy cosmic rays (UHECRs). Lastly, we will offer an outlook on forthcoming data and advancements that will further bolster our ability to reconstruct the GMF and comprehend its implications for the field.