Physics and Astronomy Colloquium

Nathan Schwadron, Associate Professor, University of New Hampshire

February 21, 2014
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Location
Wilder 104
Sponsored by
Physics & Astronomy Department
Audience
Public
More information
Tressena Manning
603-646-2854

Title:  "Has Voyager 1 Really Crossed the Heliopause?"

Abstract:  On Dec 3, 2013, a remarkable thing happened, marking a significant step forward for
heliophysics: Ed Stone appeared on the Colbert Report announcing that Voyager 1
has crossed into interstellar space. The show was fantastic with both Ed Stone and Colbert
delivering their respective A-games!  But there is a potential problem with the interpretation.
The puzzle is why Voyager 1 is continuing to measure a magnetic field remarkably similar
to the direction inside the heliopause and inside the heliosphere. The observations by
Voyager 1 of the direction of the “interstellar magnetic field” directly contradict the interstellar
magnetic field direction inferred  by the Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX)
based on the IBEX ribbon that is believed to line up perpendicular to the interstellar magnetic field.
We will show that the interpretation of Voyager 1 also contradicts observations
by ground-based observatories that measure very high energy TeV cosmic ray anisotropies.
We will discuss the new Voyager 1 controversy, several ideas for potential resolution, and
ultimately attempt to answer the question of whether Colbert got it wrong.

Location
Wilder 104
Sponsored by
Physics & Astronomy Department
Audience
Public
More information
Tressena Manning
603-646-2854