Joint Astrophysics Colloquium

Joint Astrophysics Seminar

Gamma-ray bursts in the light of the Swift satellite,
and some ultra-high energy prospects

Peter Mészáros

Astronomy & Astrophysics Department
Pennsylvania State University

Gamma-ray bursts are the most luminous explosions in the Universe, and their origin and mechanism are the focus of intense research and debate. Their study has entered a new phase with the launch of the Swift satellite. The interplay between these observations and theoretical models of the prompt gamma ray burst and its afterglow will be reviewed. I will also discuss implications and future prospects for very high energy (GeV and above) as well possible non-electromagnetic emission signatures.