Probing the accretion in supermassive black holes with X-ray observations

Advisor: Anne Lohfink

Accretion onto black holes is one of the most efficient processes for emitting energy from matter in the Universe. A lot of this energy is converted extremely close to the black hole's event horizon and is emitted in the X-ray band. Therefore, we can learn a lot about the immediate surrounding of an accreting black hole from the analysis of the X-ray radiation it emits. In this project, the undergraduate researcher will analyze some X-ray data from accreting supermassive black holes. This analysis will help us gain more insight into a region called the X-ray corona where the most high energy X-ray photons are being produced. We will gain insight into how the photons are able to reach such a high energy and whether there is any connection of that region to the large relativistic outflows (jets) often seen in these sources.

Previous programming experience is useful for this project but not 100% required. The Physics close to the black hole is quite complex and this project will therefore not be suitable for rising sophomore students.