Numerical modeling of relativistic particle shock acceleration

Abstract

The shock acceleration mechanism is invoked to explain non-thermal cosmic rays in Supernova Remnants, Active Galactic Nuclei and Gamma Ray Bursts jets. Especially, the importance of relativistic shock acceleration in extragalactic sources is a recurring theme raising a significant interest in the research community. We will briefly overview the shock acceleration mechanism and we will address the properties of non-relativistic and relativistic shocks, particularly focusing on relativistic simulation studies.