Tim O'Brien

Tim O'Brien is a Professor of Astrophysics at The University of Manchester, affiliated with the Department of Physics. His research focuses on the study of exploding stars, particularly nova outbursts caused by thermonuclear explosions on white dwarfs in binary systems. He is also an Associate Director of the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics and has been involved in public engagement initiatives, including the Bluedot festival. O'Brien has contributed to teaching and course development across various physics and astronomy programs and has been recognized for his work in education and public outreach.

Tim O'Brien is a Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Manchester, specializing in astrophysical phenomena, particularly classical novae and their associated outbursts. His research focuses on the multi-wavelength observations of recurrent novae, such as RS Ophiuchi, to study the dynamics of shock waves, ejected material, and interactions with stellar winds. He investigates the X-ray and optical emissions from these events, utilizing data from satellites like Chandra, XMM-Newton, and the Hubble Space Telescope. His work also explores the formation and evolution of nebular remnants and the role of binary systems in driving mass ejection and γ-ray emission. O'Brien's research contributes to understanding the life cycles of stars and the physical processes in explosive stellar events.