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    Research Seed Grant Award Recipients

    The Research Seed Grant Program provides awards to faculty and staff from WSGC Affiliate Member colleges and universities to support individuals interested in starting or enhancing space- or aerospace-related research program(s). The primary purpose of these awards is to help faculty build a research program through pilot studies, site visits or collaboration. The WSGC has served as an excellent forum to bring together investigators from different universities to initiate a research collaboration on topics of mutual interest. The success of this Seed Grant program is measured by the investigator's success in developing or expanding their research program, or forming a collaboration that leads to tangible research results.

    The Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium is pleased to announce and congratulate the following recipients of this year's Research Seed Grant Awards. Research Seed Grant Award Recipients The Research Seed Grant Program provides awards to faculty and staff from WSGC Affiliate Member colleges and universities to support individuals interested in starting or enhancing space- or aerospace-related research program(s). The primary purpose of these awards is to help faculty build a research program through pilot studies, site visits or collaboration. The WSGC has served as an excellent forum to bring together investigators from different universities to initiate research collaboration on topics of mutual interest. The success of this Seed Grant program is measured by the investigator's success in developing or expanding their research program, or forming a collaboration that leads to tangible research results. The Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium is pleased to announce and congratulate the following recipients of this year's Research Seed Grant Awards.

    2007-2008

    Michael Hencheck
    University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
    Research Title: Variable Star Observation Program
    Synopsis: For many of the variable stars known to astronomers, there is a serious shortage of observations carried out over a time period long enough to provide insight into the nature of the variations.  This lack of observational data is not due to any overwhelming difficulty in the observational process or in data reduction, but is a result of the simple fact that the variable objects greatly outnumber the astronomers working in the field.  In fact, the data can be acquired with relative ease by the patient observer possessing a small telescope equipped with a CCD camera.  This project proposes to establish a long-term research program at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay for undergraduates and faculty in the physical sciences.  The project provides for collaboration with professional observatories, recruitment of an undergraduate student with a one-year commitment to the project, initial training in beginning and advanced techniques, identification of significant objects for photoelectric photometry, data collection and analysis of light curves, and opportunities for professional presentations and publications by students and faculty.  It is Hencheck’s hope that this initial one-year program will provide for the establishment of an ongoing program of study and result in at least one completed observational project resulting in publication.

    Lindsay McHenry
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research Title: Sulfate Diagenesis of High-Fe Basalt at Craters of the Moon National Monument: Analogue for the Origin of Sediments at Meridiani Planum, Mars
    Synopsis: McHenry will study the geochemical and mineralogical effects of sulfate diagenesis (weathering) on high-iron basalts at Craters of the Moon National Monument, Idaho.  Craters of the Moon basalts are similar in composition to Martian basalts, and their weathering over a short time in a volcanic environment could provide a test for one of the proposed origins for the sulfate-rich sedimentary rocks at the Mars Exploration Rover (MER) Opportunity landing site.  A volcanic origin for these sediments could help constrain the extent, duration, and necessity of liquid water during Mars’ early history.  As water is essential to life on Earth, its long-term presence on early Mars could indicate conditions favorable to the development of life.  In contrast, a volcanic landscape with limited surface water would be less hospitable.
                    This project will employ X-ray Diffraction, X-ray Fluorescence, and Electron Microprobe analyses of fresh and sulfate-rich altered basalts from caves and lava flows collected at Craters of the Moon.  Craters of the Moon basalts are optimal Mars analogues because of their unusually high iron concentrations, and the presence of jarosite among their alteration products.

    Dan Negrut
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research Title: Algorithms and Simulation Environment for Multibody Dynamics Analysis
    Synopsis: Virtual prototyping, or the use of simulation to understand and optimize system performance well in advance of building hardware prototypes, is a design approach often times embraced due to factors that are economic in nature (shorter design cycles and cost savings).  However, beyond economic factors, this approach is the only feasible way to analyze system behavior for a new Mars rover design, or for a probe that is supposed to land on and explore Venus.  The proposed work aims at enhancing the impact of virtual prototyping through (1) new numerical algorithms and (2) a simulation paradigm shift in multibody dynamics analysis that leverages recent breakthroughs in multi-processor technologies (software and midrange hardware).  Together, the two thrusts of this research (new numerical integration techniques and the associated parallel computation support) will yield one to two orders of magnitude reduction in simulation times for large mechanical systems.  For complex multibody systems, this will directly impact NASA’s ability to understand and optimize performance well in advance of building hardware prototypes.

    Michael Politano
    Marquette University, Milwaukee
    Research Title: The Dependence of the Common Envelope Efficiency Parameter on the Total Mass
    Synopsis: Politano will expand the capabilities of the current population synthesis code to include modeling populations of close binary systems that undergo some phase(s) of thermal timescale mass transfer.  The current code is limited to modeling populations containing white dwarfs in which mass transfer occurs on a timescale that is longer than the thermal timescale of the donor star.  Incorporating thermal timescale mass transfer into the code will allow Politano to model a wider variety of close binary systems, potentially including systems that lead to neutron star and black hole binaries.  Therefore, the end product of the research is not a “result” based on a set of calculations, but rather an upgraded population synthesis code with greatly expanded capabilities.  The upgraded code will allow Politano to model systems that are of interest to programs such as NSF Stellar Astronomy and Astrophysics or NASA Astrophysics Theory.

    2006-2007

    David Bruning
    University of Wisconsin-Parkside
    Research Title: Stellar Spectral Synthesis For Cool Stars Including Surface Motions
    Synopsis: The search for extra-solar planetary systems is currently based upon the detection of a small velocity of the star caused by the planet’s gravitational force. An observer on Earth first sees the star move away from Earth and then toward Earth. These forward and back motions cause a line in the star’s spectrum to shift toward the blue and then toward the red. The amount of shift depends upon the star’s velocity. Jupiter causes the Sun to move about 10 m/s. The hot atmosphere of the star has internal motions that can generate an average line shift of the same magnitude as produced by the planet. As seen in the Sun, if the star is magnetically active, the spectral lines will appear to shift with magnitudes and periods similar to planetary-induced shifts, thus masking the planet’s signal. This project proposes to perform detailed calculations of stellar surface motions and to determine their effects on a star’s spectrum. These calculations require high-performance computers, so a computing cluster will be assembled to serve as a testbed for future calculations.

    Prasenjit Guptasarma
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research Title: Development of Oxide Nanostructures for High Efficiency Solar Panel Applications
    Synopsis: The ability to convert solar energy into a form usable by a space vehicle is critical to extraterrestrial exploration because fossil or other fuels are expensive to carry (energetically speaking), and only last a limited period of time. State-of-art spacecraft use solar panels to generate electricity – however, current technologies to convert light into electric power are expensive to manufacture, and relatively inefficient (energy output per light input) under certain conditions such as increased temperatures and lack of direct incident light. In order to consider exploration of the solar system, it is important to substantially increase light conversion efficiency because available solar radiation on a panel diminishes with increasing distance from the Sun. We expect that the support of new and emerging technologies in this direction is a key component of NASA’s space program. It is therefore important to explore alternative technologies and study fundamental mechanisms associated with these ideas.

    Vera Kolb
    University of Wisconsin-Parkside
    Research Title: Role of Organic Silicates in the Biomineralization Process
    Synopsis: The search for extra-solar planetary systems is currently based upon the detection of a small velocity of the star caused by the planet’s gravitational force. An observer on Earth first sees the star move away from Earth and then toward Earth. These forward and back motions cause a line in the star’s spectrum to shift toward the blue and then toward the red. The amount of shift depends upon the star’s velocity. Jupiter causes the Sun to move about 10 m/s. The hot atmosphere of the star has internal motions that can generate an average line shift of the same magnitude as produced by the planet. As seen in the Sun, if the star is magnetically active, the spectral lines will appear to shift with magnitudes and periods similar to planetary-induced shifts, thus masking the planet’s signal. This project proposes to perform detailed calculations of stellar surface motions and to determine their effects on a star’s spectrum. These calculations require high-performance computers, so a computing cluster will be assembled to serve as a testbed for future calculations.

    Matthew Mewes
    Marquette University
    Research Title: Analysis of Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation in the Presence of Lorentz Violation
    Synopsis: A project to determine possible constraints on deviations from Special Relativity that may be obtained from current and future observations of the Cosmic Microwave Background.

    Michael Politano
    Marquette University
    Research Title: The Dependence of the Common Envelope Efficiency Patameter on the Total Mass and Core Mass of the Giant Star
    Synopsis: This proposal seeks to investigate the impact of a variable common envelope efficiency parameter, ?CE, on population models of post-common envelope binaries (PCEBs) and zero-age cataclysmic variables (ZACVs). Building upon prior work that investigated ?CE as a function of secondary mass, here I propose to investigate ?CE as a function of the total mass and core mass of the giant primary star. Two specific questions will be addressed in this investigation: 1) How are the population models of PCEBs and ZACVs affected if ?CE is a different for common envelope evolution involving a first giant branch primary than for an AGB primary; and 2) How are these population models affected if ?CE depends on the density profile in the giant star? A Monte Carlo population synthesis code will be used to calculate the model populations of PCEBs and ZACVs. The majority of close binary stars undergo at least one phase of common envelope evolution. Consequently, the impact of the proposed work will extend well beyond the two specific close binary systems studied.

    Martin Rudd
    University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley
    Research Title: New Bidentate Ligands for Cadmium Zinc Telluride Synthesis
    Synopsis: The new missions that are being planned to Mercury, Mars and the outer planets require a careful balance of spacecraft design (size / weight) and the scientific need for information gathering. The instrumentation will need to be robust and materials for the detectors on board will have to be tested thoroughly. One of the materials being considered and researched for these applications is cadmium zinc telluride, a synthesized semi-conductor. Through this project, I will develop a new organometallic chemistry route for preparing precursors of cadmium zinc telluride, an important material in astronomy and space-based research that is used in detectors of non-visible electromagnetic waves.

    Lyndon Zink
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Research Title: Investigation of the NH and ND radicals using laser magnetic resonance spectroscopy
    Synopsis: The object of the proposed research is to investigate the NH and ND radicals using laser magnetic resonance (LMR) spectroscopy in the far-infrared. In addition to obtaining and analyzing their high-resolution spectra, the LMR technique will be used to investigate how these radicals are made. The transition frequencies for these molecular species will be measured with fractional uncertainties of a few parts in 106; this will assist in providing definitive information about their molecular parameters, including their hyperfine splitting.

    Michael Zorn
    University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
    Research Title: Anaerobic Photocatalysis for the Conversion of Glycerol, a Biodiesel Synthesis Byproduct
    Synopsis: Biodiesel is an alternative fuel that can be made from a variety of natural, renewable resources. The process of making biodiesel from vegetable oil creates a byproduct called glycerol (aka glycerine). It is the glycerol that is the main focus of this proposal. The main objective of this project is to use an advanced technology called photocatalysis to further convert glycerol to a more reduced hydrocarbon form (e.g., methane, ethane, ethene, propane) that can be used to provide additional energy. Experiments are designed to detect, identify, and quantify the gaseous reaction products, evaluate the effect of specific experimental parameters, and study the reaction kinetics.

    2005-2006

    Benjamin, Robert
    UW-Whitewater
    Major/Title:  Towards a Galactic Center: Synthesizing Recent Results on Galactic Structure

    Domblesky, Joseph
    Marquette University
    Major/Title:  Aerospace Manufacturing Initiative for Metal Formed Parts

    Sorbjan, Zbigniew
    Marquette University
    Major/Title:  Large-eddy Simulations of Turbulence and Convection on Mars

    Stockdale, Christopher
    Marquette University
    Major/Title:  Radio Transients II: Quasars, Supernaovae & Gamma-Ray Bursters

    Wu, Changshan
    UW-Milwaukee
    Major/Title:  Impervious Surface Estimation using IKONOS imagery

    Zhang, Chuanrong
    UW-Whitewater
    Major/Title:  Quantifying Spatial Uncertainty of Land Cover Classes Derived from Satellite Images using a Markov Chain Approach

    Research Infrastructure

    Mathieu, Bob
    WIYN Consortium
    Major/Title:  KittPeak - Telescope

    2004-2005 Research Seed Grant Award Recipients

    Chen, Franklin M.
    UW-Green Bay
    Research:  Magnetic Absorbent Structure for Space Expedition
    Synopsis:  ...for research of magnetic composites that could be used in numerous applications for space related expeditions and undergraduate educations. Specifically, the proposal calls for designing and engineering magnetic composites to remove toxic contaminants...

    Colton, John S.
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Research:  Electron spin T1 measurements in GaAs and related materials
    Synopsis: : Electron spin flip times in gallium arsenide (GaAs) and related materials will be studied by (a) exciting the material with a circularly polarized laser, then (b) measuring the polarization of the emitted luminescence as a function of time.

    Kolb, Vera M.
    University of Wisconsin-Parkside
    Research:  Prebiotic Significance of the Maillard Reaction
    Synopsis: : We propose to study the reaction between sugars and amino acids, so-called the Maillard reaction, from the prebiotic perspective. We shall carry out the reaction and attempt to isolate and identify some of the products, with an emphasis on those that belong to the chemical group of nitrogen heterocycles.

    Nellis, Gregory
    University of Wisconsin - Madison
    Research:  Development of Modeling Infrastructure for Magnetic Refrigeration
    Synopsis: : This proposal describes a project that will develop and extend modeling and evaluation tools that can be used to assess and design magnetic regenerator refrigerators (AMRR) for use in a variety of refrigeration applications; including near room-temperature space conditioning...

    Petty, Grant W.
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Facility for Measuring Microwave Attenuation in Frozen and Melting Precipitation
    Synopsis: : A prototype microwave transmitter/receiver link will be deployed between two buildings in order to measure microwave attenuation by falling snow. Project to serve as demo for future proposal to NASA in support of the Global Precipitation Mission.

    Sallmen, Shauna M.
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Research:  Narrow-band Mapping of Newly Identified HI Shells
    Synopsis: : This project will create high-resolution maps of warm hydrogen gas in newly identified shells blown by supernovae and/or stellar winds in order to improve our understanding of the evolution of the interstellar medium.

    Stockdale, Christopher
    Marquette University
    Research:  Radio Transients: Microquasars, Supernovae & Gamma-Ray Bursters
    Synopsis: : I am proposing to engage in a research program of radio transient sources with undergraduate students for the summer of 2004, which will evolve into an NSF Career grant application in late July 2005.

    Zorn, Michael E.
    University of Wisconsin - Green Bay
    Research:  Development of Magnetoelastic Resonance-Based Chemical Sensors for the Measurement of Gas-Phase Organic Compounds

    2003-2004 Research Seed Grant Award Recipients

    Borg, John
    Marquette
    Research:  Preliminary Investigation of Material Damage as a Result of Space Debris Impact

    Chen, Franklin
    UW-Green Bay
    Research:  Mesoporous and Microporous Materials

    Hanger, Rex
    UW-Whitewater
    Research:  Paleontology of the Permian-Triassic Boundary in Hungary: Biotic Response to an Extraterrestrial Impact Event

    Jackson, Michael
    UW-La Crosse
    Research:  Measurement of Far-Infrared Laser Emissions and Their Use in Investigating Atmospheric and Interstellar Molecules

    Majdalani, Joseph
    Marquette
    Research:  Aeroacoustic Instabilities in Vortex-Driven Rocket Motors

    2002-2003 Research Seed Grant Award Recipients

    Bishop, Deborah
    BTCI
    Research:  Spectral Regulation of the Lignin Biosynthetic Pathway

    Kernozek, Thomas
    UW-LaCrosse
    Research:  Effects of Cardiovascular Fatigue on The Joint Reaction Forces & Torques During Running

    LeDocq, Michael
    UW-LaCrosse
    Research:  Development of a Space Plasma Wave Research Program at UW-LaCrosse

    Majdalani, Joseph
    Marquettte
    Research:  Aroacoustic Instabilities in Vortex-Driven Rocket Motors

    Zorn, Michael
    UW-Green Bay
    Research:  Photocatallytic Oxidation of Gas-Phase Compounds in Confined Areas: Investigation of Multiple Component Systems

    2001-2002 Research Seed Grant Award Recipients

    Deborah Bishop
    University of Wisconsin-Madison/USDA-ARS
    Research:  Spectral Regulation of the Lignin Biosynthetic Pathway

    Joseph Domblesky
    Marquette University
    Research:  Preliminary Investigation of the FCAW for Space Welding

    Bob Klindworth
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse
    Research:  Study of the Quark Structure of Nuclear Matter

    Habib Tabatabai
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research:  Experimental Investigation of a New Damage Detection Method for Laminated Composites in Aerospace Structures

    2000-2001 Research Seed Grant Award Recipients

    Michael Jackson
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse

    Kasi Periyasamy
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse

    David Sarocka
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

    1999-2000 Research Seed Grant Award Recipients

    Michael Briley
    University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
    Research:  Improved Distances to Globular Clusters: A Simultaneous Approach to Baade-Wesselink Methods

    Barrett Caldwell
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Development of a Space Human Factors Research Gateway

    Robert S. Crockett
    Milwaukee School of Engineering
    Research:  Center for Reduced Gravity Manufacturing: Research Experiences for Undergraduates

    David Goldblum
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Research:  Long-Term Stability of the Boreal Forest-Hardwood Forest Ecotone on the East Shore

    Kenny Hunt
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse
    Research:  Web-Based Software for the Display and

    David Travis
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Research:  A Determination of the Influence of Snow Cover on Atmosphere Temperatures While

    Vladislav V. Yakovlev
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research:  Advanced Laser Techniques for Manufacturing Novel Materials for Space Flights