Nuclear Astrophysics in the New Era of Multimessenger Astronomy

TL;DR

This paper discusses how multimessenger astronomy, especially gravitational wave detection from neutron star mergers, advances our understanding of nuclear matter under extreme conditions in neutron stars.

Contribution

It highlights the synergy between nuclear physics and astrophysics and the impact of gravitational wave observations on neutron star research.

Findings

Gravitational wave detection constrains neutron star composition.

Neutron stars exhibit exotic states of matter.

Multimessenger observations enhance nuclear astrophysics understanding.

Abstract

Neutron stars are unique cosmic laboratories for the exploration of matter under extreme conditions of density and neutron-proton asymmetry. Due to their enormous dynamic range, neutron stars display a myriad of exotic states of matter that are impossible to recreate under normal laboratory conditions. In these three lectures I will discuss how the strong synergy that has developed between nuclear physics and astrophysics will uncover some of the deepest secrets behind these fascinating objects. In particular, I will highlight the enormous impact that the very first detection of gravitational waves from the binary neutron-star merger GW170817 is having in constraining the composition, structure, and dynamics of neutron stars.