B. Cyr: CMB Spectral Distortions: A Multi-messenger Probe of the Primordial Universe

  • Starts: 11:00 am on Friday, April 25, 2025
  • Ends: 12:00 pm on Friday, April 25, 2025
In this talk, I will begin with a gentle introduction to the theory of CMB spectral distortions (with some experimental updates), and provide details regarding a recent application to updated constraints on dark photons. I'll then discuss "soft photon heating", a development in the theory of 21cm cosmology recently discerned from its overlap with spectral distortions, which has major implications on the inference of additional photon backgrounds at redshifts z>20. Following this (time permitting), I'll further highlight the synergistic aspects of distortions by discussing recently developed connections to primordial gravitational wave backgrounds. To conclude, These connections underscore the value of spectral distortions in providing an additional window which can be used in conjunction with other emerging fields to further sharpen our view of the Universe.
Location:
PRB 595
Speaker
Bryce Cyr
Institution
MIT
Host
Nick Deporzio