Alexander P. Stephan (UCLA) --- Stellar Evolution in Hierarchical Triples: Applications for Supermassive Black Holes and Exoplanets

Title: Stellar Evolution in Hierarchical Triples: Applications for Supermassive Black Holes and Exoplanets

Abstract: Hierarchical triples are widespread configurations of astrophysical systems, such as triple stars, binary stars orbiting SMBHs, or many planetary systems, among others. These systems are stable for long periods of time, allowing interesting dynamical effects, such as the Eccentric Kozai-Lidov mechanism, to occur. However, precisely because of the long-term stability of such systems, other physical effects can also influence their dynamics. In this talk I will discuss the importance of stellar evolution on such systems, focusing on the contexts of galactic nuclei and exoplanets. In particular I will show that the post-main sequence evolution of these systems leads to a variety of interesting phenomena, including stellar and planetary mergers, Hot Jupiter formation, supernovae, and gravitational wave emission.