X-ray Polarization of Gamma-Ray Bursts

TL;DR

This paper reviews the current understanding of X-ray polarization in gamma-ray bursts, discussing theoretical models, observational data, and future prospects to better understand GRB jet physics.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive review of the theory and observations of GRB polarization, highlighting recent advances and future directions.

Findings

Theoretical models predict specific polarization signatures during different GRB phases.

Observations have detected polarization levels consistent with some models.

Future observations are expected to refine understanding of GRB jet structures.

Abstract

The degree and the temporal evolution of linear polarization in the prompt and afterglow emission of gamma-ray bursts is a very robust diagnostic of some key features of gamma-ray bursts jets and their micro and macro physics. In this contribution, I review the current status of the theory of polarized emission from GRB jets during the prompt, optical flash, and afterglow emission. I compare the theoretical predictions to the available observations and discuss the future prospect from both the theoretical and observational standpoints.