What's the Latest on Fast Radio Bursts?

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In summary, Fast Radio Bursts (FRBs) are bright bursts of radio waves that last for only a few milliseconds. They have been a mystery since their discovery in 2007, but recent advances in technology and research have shed some light on their origin. The latest status is that astronomers have detected repeating FRBs from a dwarf galaxy located over 3 billion light-years away. This discovery provides new insight into the potential sources of these bursts and brings us closer to understanding these elusive cosmic events. Additionally, several new FRBs have been detected and studied, further expanding our knowledge of these phenomena. However, there is still much to learn about FRBs, and ongoing research and technological developments are crucial in unraveling their mysteries.
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Chronos
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Fast radio bursts are a relatively recent observational development that has puzzled astrophysicists thus far. This paper; https://arxiv.org/abs/1702.02161, FRB as Pulsar Lightning, offers a plausible explanation for the phenomenon. For some background on FRB, this paper, by the same author may be of interest; https://arxiv.org/abs/1604.01799, Fast Radio Bursts---A Brief Review: Some Questions, Fewer Answers.
 
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Someone today was discussing FRBs (Local Astronomical Society) and I get the impression that they are a bit of a mystery.
Only a very few have actually been detected and even fewer have been observed by more than one receiver.
I have been looking for some actual numbers associated with them amongst the lighter weight news reports but I couldn't find much of substance. What sort of frequencies are involved? What is the waveform? There is talk of using the dispersion to give an idea of the total mass on their path to us.
Then there is the supposed location and estimated total power involved. It seems to be assumed that the source is omnidirectional and a very long way away. (Only one FRB has been attributed to an identifiable very distant galaxy). Does it go without saying that the source must be from a very distant visible source? Why not from a nearer very dim source?
Also, how do radio astronomers distinguish such a one-off disturbance from something man-made?
Lots of questions. Any good answers?
 
  • #3
Ho sophie:
Perhaps you might want to compare thoughts with @Chronos.
https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/fast-radio-bursts-a-possible-solution.903325/​

Regards,
Buzz
 
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Buzz Bloom said:
Ho sophie:
Perhaps you might want to compare thoughts with @Chronos.
https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/fast-radio-bursts-a-possible-solution.903325/​

Regards,
Buzz
Weird coincidence in the final lines of our two posts. (Thanks for the link, btw)
The Katz paper is interesting and very recent, too. Perhaps there will be more stuff shortly.
 
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Editor note: I merged the two threads.
 
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Related to What's the Latest on Fast Radio Bursts?

1. What are FRBs?

FRBs (Fast Radio Bursts) are intense bursts of radio waves coming from deep space. They last for only a few milliseconds and are extremely powerful, emitting as much energy as hundreds of millions of suns.

2. What is the latest status on FRBs?

The latest status on FRBs is that they are still a mystery. Scientists have detected hundreds of FRBs, but they still don't know their exact source or cause. However, new research and technologies are constantly being developed to better understand and study these enigmatic bursts.

3. Where do FRBs come from?

The origin of FRBs is still unknown. Some theories suggest they could be produced by highly magnetic neutron stars or black holes, while others propose they could be signals from advanced alien civilizations. More research is needed to determine their exact source.

4. Can we detect FRBs from other galaxies?

Yes, FRBs have been detected from other galaxies, which suggests that they are not produced by phenomena unique to our own galaxy. This also supports the theory that these bursts are produced by powerful and distant cosmic events.

5. What is the significance of studying FRBs?

Studying FRBs can provide valuable insights into the universe and its mysterious phenomena. It can also help us better understand the laws of physics and potentially reveal new information about the origin and evolution of the universe. Additionally, studying FRBs can also aid in the search for extraterrestrial life and advanced civilizations.

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