Magnetic Mysteries of the Galaxies

November 21, 2024 The space between stars is a magnetic soup of electrons, atoms, molecules, ions, and dust grains, known as the interstellar medium (ISM). It is this material that ultimately condenses to form stars, planets, and life. The densest and coldest part of the ISM are the birthplace of stars. However, the exact processes governing star formation within galaxies remain one of astrophysics' most compelling mysteries. To answer this question, we focus on a crucial, yet often overlooked player: magnetic fields. However, observing magnetic fields is not an easy task. In this talk, Dr. Mehrnoosh Tahani will discuss how novel methods of observing and studying magnetic fields are reshaping our understanding of how galaxies evolve to form stars, shedding light on the mysteries of magnetic galaxies.Mehrnoosh Tahani focuses on finding innovative ways to observe and study cosmic and interstellar magnetic fields. As a Banting Fellow, sponsored by Canada with the privilege of choosing any eligible university worldwide, she selected Stanford University, where she also holds a Kavli Institute for Particle Astrophysics and Cosmology (KIPAC) Fellowship. Previously, Mehrnoosh was a Research Associate (Covington Fellow) at the Dominion Radio Astrophysical Observatory with the National Research Council Canada. She obtained her PhD from the University of Calgary, having moved to Canada for graduate studies after completing her undergraduate degree at Sharif University in Tehran. Initially drawn to particle physics during her time at Sharif, Mehrnoosh's academic journey took an unexpected turn midway through her doctoral studies. Returning to her lifelong passion for astrophysics—a fascination that began at a young age—Mehrnoosh refocused her research on observing and understanding the cosmos, employing unique interdisciplinary approaches to study cosmic magnetism.