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Session: Cosmology and Relativistic Astrophysics

Name: Dr. Brian Reville (MPIK)
Coauthors: No coauthors were included.
Type: Oral
Title: Non-thermal particle acceleration at relativistic shocks - astrophysical implications
Abstract:

Astrophysical shocks are commonly associated to sites of significant non-thermal emission such as Gamma Ray Bursts, AGN hotspots, or pulsar wind nebulae. The particles that generate the non-thermal emission are thought to be accelerated via Fermi shock acceleration, a process that has been well-studied in non-relativistic scenarios such as supernova remnants, but less well explored in the context of the above-mentioned relativistic systems. I will summarise the current theoretical understanding of particle acceleration at relativistic shocks, highlighting the role of the global geometry, and the possible implications for sources of ultra-high energy gamma-rays and cosmic rays. Powerful jets carrying helical magnetic fields are found to provide favourable conditions for the acceleration of UHECRs.