11:00 am–12:00 pm ERC 401
Title: 21-cm Cosmology as a Probe of Reionization: Results from Phase II HERA and Future Prospects
Abstract: 21-cm line intensity mapping of the intergalactic medium (IGM) in the high-redshift universe will offer unprecedented statistical leverage on cosmology and astrophysics from the Epoch of Reionization deep into the Cosmic Dawn. These observations will illuminate the formation of the first stars, galaxies, and black holes, while sharpening cosmological constraints through a better understanding of the reionization history. In this talk, I will present the latest results from the Hydrogen Epoch of Reionization Array (HERA) following its Phase II upgrade. I will show how HERA’s stringent upper limits on the 21-cm power spectrum can already constrain early properties of the IGM. Beyond the auto power spectrum, I will highlight how upcoming high-redshift galaxy surveys can be cross-correlated with 21-cm data to further probe reionization. Finally, as sensitivity approaches the level needed to detect the 21-cm signal, I will discuss some theoretical explorations in field-level reconstruction aimed at extracting maximal cosmological information, while addressing the persistent challenges of foreground contamination.
Zoom: https://uchicago.zoom.us/j/93802578500?pwd=NWNKLhJbCVfJkaam4yWCgRZXcntdhA.1
