X-raying the local interstellar medium

• Applicant: Efrain Gatuzz, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Astrophysics and Astronomy
• Term: from 2019 to 2022
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 428803185

The interstellar medium (ISM), gas and dust between the stars, regulates the star life cycles and the dynamics of the Galaxy. The ISM can be studied by multiple observational techniques, including 21 cm radio emission, IR, and UV. X-ray spectroscopy, in particular, constitute a powerful method to study the ISM because X-ray photons interacts not only with the atomic gas but also with molecules and solid (i.e. dust). Hence, by using X-ray astronomical observations, we can study the ISM physical properties and chemical composition. We propose to characterize the spatial distribution of the hydrogen atoms and molecules in the ISM by modeling X-ray absorption spectral features of Galactic sources. By fitting X-ray spectra of Galactic sources, obtained with the XMM-Newton X-ray observatory, in combination with distances measured with the GAIA observatory, we will create unprecedented 3D map of the ISM density distribution, as seen on the X-ray energy band.

• DFG Programme: Research Fellowships
• International Connection: USA
• Host: Dr. Javier A. Garcia