#15 - Dr. Duncan Lorimer - Pulsars, Discovering Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs), and Creating Music

In this episode Brendan is joined by Dr. Duncan Lorimer. Duncan Lorimer is a Professor of Physics at West Virginia University and is interested in compact objects (black holes, neutron stars and white dwarfs) which he studies using radio pulsars. In 2007, his research group discovered a new type of object that had never been observed before - fast radio bursts (FRBs). These objects are still a mystery. Duncan is also a very good blues/folk musician who's music can be found at soundcloud.com/duncan-lorimer. I encourage you to check out his music! More information about Duncan can be found at duncanlorimer.com. A film detailing the efforts to get high school students involved in radio astronomy research at Green Bank, WV can be viewed at lgmfilm.com.

Throughout the episode we discuss pulsars, fast radio bursts, what it's like to discover a new type of astronomical object, Green Bank, West Virginia, getting high school students involved in research, and writing/playing music.

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The State of the Universe is an accessible science and social podcast hosted by Astrophysicist Brendan Drachler. Listen to Brendan and other renowned members of society discuss and explain cutting edge research and profound ideas.