Speaker
John Webb
(UNSW)
Description
We are preparing a large sample of high-precision varying alpha measurements using quasar spectra. The measurements are being made using the new automated AI methodology described in arXiv:1606.07393 which eliminates any important human bias. A detailed study of long-range wavelength distortions in UVES/VLT and HIRES/Keck samples will also be described. I will show that such distortions are indeed present, but do not explain the tentative spatial variation of alpha, contrary to a previous claim. Moreover, long range wavelength distortions can be accurately measured using the quasar spectra themselves and hence can be removed from the final set of alpha measurements.
