Cosmic magnetism and cosmic ray propagation in the large scale universe

• Grant number: 19/04992-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Start date: May 01, 2019
• End date: July 31, 2023
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Astronomy - Extragalactic Astrophysics
• Principal Investigator: Elisabete Maria de Gouveia Dal Pino
• Grantee: Stela Adduci Faria
• Host Institution: Instituto de Astronomia, Geofísica e Ciências Atmosféricas (IAG). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/10559-5 - Investigation of high energy and plasma astrophysics phenomena: theory, numerical simulations, observations, and instrument development for the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA), AP.ESP

Abstract

In this PhD project, we intend to continue research studies developed in our group regarding the origin of cosmic magnetic fields in the diffuse Intergalactic Medium (IGM) and clusters of galaxies (de Gouveia Dal Pino 2011), as well as their connection with turbulence and Cosmic Ray (CR) propagation. Well tested three-dimensional numerical grid-based Godunov-MHD codes developed by the group (Kowal et al. 2011; 2012; Falceta-Goncalves et al. 2010a, b; Nackwaki et al. 2016; Santos-Lima et al. 2014, 2016, 2018), as well as SPH (Smoothed-particle hydrodynamics) MHD (Magnetohydrodynamics) codes (GADGET; Dolag et al. 2004; Springel 2005) will be employed to describe the evolution of clusters of galaxies and the turbulent IGM, including all the important physical feedback processes like AGNs, star formation history, and collisionless kinetic instabilities effects. CRs propagation and their non-thermal losses through the IGM magnetic fields will be also quantified via the performance of test particle injection in the background described by the MHD simulations above. PIC (Particle-in-Cell) simulations to capture the kinetic Larmor scales are also foreseen. Furthermore, considering our group's participation in the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) Project and the construction of the CTA Precursor, the ASTRI MINI-ARRAY, this project is also aimed at direct applications of these studies to an appropriate description and interpretation of the observed gamma-ray emission in these environments produced by CR deflections in the propagation through IGM magnetic fields. In particular these studies may allow to establish particle emission and space distribution constraints for CTA and Mini-Array targets. (AU)