Events in Physics

Traditional stellar evolution models are incomplete. Asteroseismic observations reveal that these models over-predict the internal rotation rates of evolved stars by several orders of magnitude. This so-called missing angular-momentum transport problem has remained unsolved for over a decade, presenting a significant theoretical challenge. One potential solution to the issue is the presence of unaccounted-for magnetic fields hidden deep inside stellar interiors. This has posed a difficult theory to test, as such fields cannot be detected using conventional techniques. However, recent advances in magneto-asteroseismology have provided us with a tool to not only identify the presence of magnetism in the deep stellar interior, but to measure magnetic properties.

In this talk, I will review the missing angular-momentum transport problem and discuss its potential magnetic solution. I will show how Bayesian inference enables robust measurements of internal rotation and magnetism across large stellar samples, unlocking a new regime of precision asteroseismology. I will conclude by outlining how the combination of new observational datasets and advanced statistical methods can finally resolve the long-standing question of how stars transport angular momentum.