My research interests include heliospheric physics and the coupled nature of plasma populations in planetary magnetospheres. In particular, recent work has focused on wave-particle interactions, solar wind-magnetosphere interactions, and energetic particle dynamics in Earth’s Van Allen radiation belts through analysis of particle and field measurements from satellites, balloons, and ground stations. In addition to data analysis, my research involves instrumentation and small satellite development.
ASEN 5440 - Mission Design and Development for Space Sciences
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021
Brings science and engineering students together to develop the multidisciplinary skills required to create a successful proposal to develop a NASA-funded small space mission. Goals: 1) develop the proposal science objectives based on scientific community priorities and NASA Announcement of Opportunity. 2) Understand how science requirements lead to the design of instrumentation. 3) Understand practical aspects of mission development. Same as ASTR 5780.
ASTR 2020 - Space Astronomy and Exploration
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2023 / Fall 2024
Covers physical principles of performing astronomy from space for science and exploration. The basic design of launch vehicles and spacecraft, orbital dynamics, and instruments will be described in the context of specific space missions (e.g. Hubble Telescope, Mars rovers) as well as prospects for future space observatories in orbit and on the Moon.
ASTR 4800 - Space Science: Practice and Policy
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2021 / Spring 2022 / Spring 2024
Exposes students to current controversies in science that illustrate the scientific method and the interplay of observation, theory, and science policy. Students research and debate both sides of the issues, which include strategies and spin-offs of space exploration, funding of science, big vs. small science, and scientific heresy and fraud. Recommended prerequisite: one year of college level astronomy or physics.
ASTR 5780 - Mission Design and Development for Space Sciences
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2021
Brings science and engineering students together to develop the multidisciplinary skills required to create a successful proposal to develop a NASA-funded small space mission. Goals: 1) develop the proposal science objectives based on scientific community priorities and NASA Announcement of Opportunity. 2) Understand how science requirements lead to the design of instrumentation. 3) Understand practical aspects of mission development. Same as ASEN 5440.
ASTR 6000 - Seminar in Astrophysics
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2024
Studies current research and research literature on an astrophysical topic. Students and faculty give presentations. Subjects vary each semester. May be repeated for a total of 4 credit hours to meet candidacy requirements.
