Advancing a Universal Analysis Framework for High-Energy Spectro-Polarimetry
Geneva & Ayent
The study of compact astrophysical objects, such as gamma-ray bursts, blazars, and pulsars, involves the observation of relativistic plasma jets that emit multi-wavelength electromagnetic radiation with complex spectro-polarimetric characteristics. High-energy polarimetry provides critical insights into magnetic fields, source geometry, and the physical processes occurring near central engines under extreme conditions. This technique offers unique perspectives beyond traditional imaging, timing, and spectroscopy, representing a significant frontier in international astrophysics. While the recent deployment of space-borne high-energy polarimeters has opened new avenues for discovery, the lack of a standardized joint analysis frameworkโintegrating data from various instruments and theoretical modelsโlimits the full impact of these scientific investigations.
The primary objective of this workshop is to develop a universal analysis framework for high-energy spectro-polarimetry, enabling joint analysis across multiple instruments. The specific aims are: 1) to establish standardized input-output processes and pipelines for spectro-polarimetric data; 2) to integrate theoretical models with observational data for direct fitting of physical parameters; and 3) to enhance collaboration between instrument developers, data analysts, and theorists. With the imminent launch of additional high-energy polarimeters, the timing is ideal for advancing this framework through broader participation from the instrumentation community.
This five-day workshop will adopt a collaborative, hands-on approach, bringing together experts in instrument development, data analysis, and theoretical modelling. The event will be structured around opening presentations, hands-on software optimization, dataset preparation, and joint spectro-polarimetric data analysis, culminating in model fitting directly against data. This iterative process will ensure the development of a robust, standardized analysis framework, supported by practical use cases and comprehensive documentation, to be released within six months post-event. The anticipated publications and the public release of the framework will advance the field of high-energy polarimetry and astrophysics globally, benefiting missions such as AstroSAT, COSI, CATCH, eXTP, CUSP, Daksha...
Due to the hands-on nature of the workshop, only a limited number of additional places will be available. Apart from the 14 invited experts and the 3 organizers from the University of Geneva, a few places will be available for interested participants (self-funded). Those who are interested can contact the organizers directly for the arrangements.
We thank the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) for the support.