Projects for the 2003-2004 School Year
Classifying Galaxies According to Rotational Properties
Name: Meredith Shaw
Abstract: This project is intended to develop a complement to the current galaxy classification systems based on the rotational properties of the galaxies.
This will be done by analyzing the rotational properties of known galaxies and finding ways of classifying them based on that information,
then finding a way to combine those classifications with an already widely used system.
Detecting Radio Emission from Extrasolar Planets
Names: Alex Annear, Jenn Conant, Betsy Eames, Meera Fickling, Tim Lee, Matt Neitzke, Marc Nichols,
Caroline Normile, Lucy Sullivan, Ross Wolfarth, and Sara Yenke
Abstract: The objective of this project is to develop a model with data obtained using the Very Large Array (VLA) to locate extrasolar planets based on their radio emission.
It is known that planets emit radiation at low frequencies when charged stellar particles interact with their planetary magnetic fields. The current stage of the project,
however, involves studying the solar systems of currently known planets in order to understand their patterns of emission and compare them with the known patterns of radio emission
from within our own solar system. It is hoped that this study will allow us to locate new extrasolar planets orbiting other stars and that the method of combining images will
be demonstrated as an effective means of studying astronomical radio sources.
Discovering Effects of Prevailing Martian Winds on Surface Irregularities
Name: Tina Sweeder
Abstract: The purpose of this project is to research the surface and winds on Mars in order to test different areas and situations. Because of the numerous explorations to Mars,
it is important for research agencies to know safe locations for rovers and other vehicles in the case of a windstorm. In the future, it will be important for architects to know
what kinds and shapes of building are suited for different regions of Mars.
Observing Jovian Radio Emissions
Names: Rachel Brown and Jana Lepon
Abstract: This project will take place in two parts. The first segment will be the construction of a radio telescope.
The second will be the monitoring of Jupiter. The results obtained will be compared with those radio emissions recorded by other RadioJove observers.
Searching for Supernovae
Names: Christy Feeney, Will Randolph, and Katie Vajs
Abstract: We will search for supernovae in ten spiral galaxies using two methods. The images will be obtained from various telescopes on the internet,
primarily the Hands On Universe website. First, we will employ image analysis software, both Hands On Universe and Idrisi, to adjust for subtle differences
in contrast, background lighting, and image orientation. We will then subtract the two images and see if any possible supernovae are found.
Secondly, we will analyze the images visually so that results found with the software can be confirmed. While our most ambitious goal would be to discover unknown supernovae,
even finding one that had been discovered would confirm the techniques used. In this way, future high school groups could continue the search more easily and with a proven process.
A Study of the Extreme Volcanism and Resurfacing That Occurs on the Jovian Satellite Io
Name: Austin Pryor
Abstract: Through the use of images from the Galileo Mission, I plan to study the resurfacing of Io and the many changes that it has undergone as a result of the extreme volcanism and geological activity.
Over the many years that Galileo was receiving images, many drastic changes took place on Io, and I plan to see exactly what changes have happened.
Hopefully I will get a chance to lok back at images from the Voyager Satellite and compare images from several decades ago with images taken just a few years ago
to see what changes have occered over a larger range of time.
Using Laser Altimeter Data to Show Recent Volcanic Activity
Name: Zachary Savit
Abstract: I intend to show that there is volcanic activity on Mars, in the Tharsis region.
I will do this by using two sets of Laser Altimeter Data, looking for any positive changes in elevation of the region,
as well as by comparing magnetometer readings of the region to readings from volcanically active regions on Earth.
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