Speaker
Dr
Carlos Martins
(CAUP)
Description
Astrophysical tests of the stability of fundamental couplings such as the fine-structure constant $\alpha$ and the proton-to-electron mass ratio $\mu$ are a key probe of fundamental physics and cosmology. A new generation of high-resolution spectrographs and improved statistical analysis techniques are enabling tests with improved sensitivities and larger redshift ranges. I will present new astrophysical measurements of $\alpha$, from the ESPRESSO collaboration and other facilities, and discuss their impact on models of dark energy. Time permitting I may also briefly highlight how the field will evolve in the coming years.
Author
Dr
Carlos Martins
(CAUP)
