Alejandra Meza L&S Math & Physical Sciences
A Stellar Pas de Trois: Dynamics of Triple Systems in Common Envelopes
Motivated by gravitational-wave signatures from binary mergers, my research probes the evolution of triple systems in which a binary is embedded within the gas-filled envelope of an aging single star. Massive stars commonly reside in hierarchical triple systems, where a binary is gravitationally bound to a single star. The post-main sequence expansion of the single star leads to the engulfment of the binary, initiating a common envelope episode. I investigate under which conditions these triple interactions lead to gravitational wave events with electromagnetic counterparts and how they inform the formation channels of observed high-energy transients. While common envelope evolution has primarily been studied in binaries, my work models binary-single interactions within a gaseous envelope, providing a new theoretical framework that links observed transient signatures to the dynamics of triple systems.
Message To Sponsor
Without this funding, I would not have been able to stay in Berkeley this summer furthering my research on the formation channels of high energy transient events in our universe. I am excited to deepen the scientific rigor of my work, and contribute my insights on high-energy astrophysics and the evolution of triple systems. Your generous support has opened an opportunity for me to continue my work, within a supportive community of scholars. Thank you.