Ultracompact binaries: Gravitational wave sources and supernova Ia progenitors

Studies of Ultra-compact binaries (UCBs), consisting of an extremely close pair of white dwarf (WD), neutron star (NS), and/or helium stars, are key to a better understanding of late-stage binary star evolution as well as alternate pathways to Type Ia supernovae (SN), the latter representing our best "standard candle" for determining the extra-galactic distance scale and the ultimate fate of the universe (e.g., cosmic acceleration). Galactic UCBs will also be routinely detected by the next generation of gravity wave telescopes like ESA/NASA's Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA).

A research team at Texas Tech University will analyze a fast cadence survey of the Galactic Plane in both hemispheres to identify a uniform sample of several-hundred new UCBs. The research will support a Ph.D. candidate. The principal investigator will also establish a program to bring research experience to underserved and rural elementary, middle, and high-school students plus teacher-training.

UCBs can be detected through their light-curves, which show variations on timescales as short as