Tue, March 12, 2024
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
PRB 4138 & Zoom
Speaker: Pierre Heidmann (OSU)
Topological Stars and Black Holes
I will be discussing novel gravitational states of matter motivated by string theory. While they are generally expected to be quantum in nature, certain classes of these states are coherent enough to be described as new ultra-compact entities without horizons or singularities. These spacetime solitons are known as Topological Stars. I will explore their potential role in resolving astrophysical black holes. Additionally, in light of the emerging field of black hole astronomy, we will examine their differences from black holes and how they can offer an interesting experimental window into the quantum aspects of gravity.