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    Undergraduate Research Award Recipients

    The Undergraduate Research Awards Program provides awards to qualified students from WSGC Affiliate Member colleges and universities to create and implement a small research study of their own design as academic year, summer, or part-time employment that is directly related to their interests and career objectives in space science, aerospace, or space-related studies.

    A faculty or research staff member on student's campus will act as an advisor for the research study, which is conceptualized and designed by the student. WSGC will locate a scientist or engineer from one of the research-intensive universities to act as a second mentor for successful applicants. WSGC is pleased to announce and congratulate the following students on their WSGC Undergraduate Research Awards:

    2009-2010

    Sean Harrington
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Major: Physics and Mathematics
    High School: Marshfield HS, Marshfield, WI
    Research Title/Area: Single-Photon Dector for Deep-Space Communication
    Synopsis: Utilizing optical communications for deep-space transmissions will likely lead to increased data rates and extended link lengths, essential for space exploration. Detectors sensitive to individual photons have proven to be essential components for maximizing the efficiency of long-range optical communication systems. This research project will study single-photon detection utilizing tiny beads of semiconductor material known as quantum dots (QDs). In these structures, called QDOGFETs (QD, optically gated, field-effect transistor), a photon is detected through an exchange of energy between an absorbed photon and a QD, which changes the electrical characteristics of the surrounding transistor. The QDOGFET demonstrates capabilities not offered by traditional single-photon detectors: photon-number resolution. I will investigate the temperature dependence of the detection process and the mechanisms that limit performance.

    Daniel Hawk
    University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
    Major: Human Biology, Pre-Nursing, Nutrition, Chemistry
    High School: West De Pere HS, De Pere, WI
    Research Title/Area: Astronaunt Advanced Life Support Extended Stay
    Synopsis: In the race to the moon we don’t want to be last! The U.S. must remain on the cutting edge of space-based technology. It is no secret that the moon has precious elements such as helium-3 that could be used to solve our current energy problem. However, that means we must send astronauts to live and work on the moon for extended periods of time. So how do we do that? This proposal looks at some of the problems facing astronauts by using research questions to help find solutions for astronaut advanced life support.

    Jacob Miller
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Major: Physics, Astrophysics
    High School: Wrightstown HS, Wrightstown, WI
    Research Title/Area: Study of Active Galactic Nuclei in Galaxy Clusters Using Numerical and Computer Simulations
    Synopsis: The project I have chosen to work on is modeling the jet outflow from an Active Galactic Nucleus as it passes through a Galaxy Cluster and interacts with neighboring Galaxies. This will involve extensive modifications to existing computer simulations, so the first step will be to learn the necessary program languages and begin to dissect the existing code the research group has been working with to reflect the unique conditions found in a cluster. The end result would ideally be a full computer simulation of a whole Galaxy Cluster, with at least one Galaxy containing a central Black Hole. This model should include interactions between the host Galaxy and others in the Cluster, ideally including near collisions in which the jet’s behavior would be drastically altered by the interaction.

    Bradley Rentz
    Marquette University
    Major: Physics and German
    High School: Saint Xavier HS, Cincinnati, OH
    Research Title/Area: Radio Analysis of Type IIb Supernovae
    Synopsis: The objective of the project is to determine the mass-loss history and other details relevant to life and death of type IIb Supernova progenitor stars by analyzing archival radio data. I will analyze archival data from radio observations of type IIb supernovae (SNe) blastwaves and determine how they interact with the circumstellar medium (CSM), the material shed by the SN progenitor stars before they died, to determine the mass-loss history of the SN progenitor. The results of this analysis could lead to a better understanding of the life and decay of type IIb SN progenitor stars. The archival data will be analyzed with the help of the computer program AIPS (Astronomical Image Processing System), designed for the analysis of radio data. The analysis is primarily concerned with determining the intensity of the radio wave emission at several wavelengths with respect to time of the initial blast. The results of the analysis will be used to develop the mass-loss history of the SN progenitor star.

    Melania Riabokin
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Major: Astronomy, Physics
    High School: Conserve School, Land O' Lakes, WI
    Research Title/Area: Melding Theory with Observation of Galaxy Groups to Solve the Heating Problem
    Synopsis: Our goal is to solve the 'heating problem' in galaxy groups. We have previously derived a formula for what the group temperature should be, with heating by gravitational collapse only. We propose to test our theory for the gravitational heating of galaxy groups and refine it by comparing our predictions for model groups against observations of real groups. We believe that this comparison will be illuminating as to how much heating has been done on the group and what mechanism is the most probable source of that amount of heating.

    Jonathon Slightam
    Milwaukee School of Engineering
    Major: Mechanical Engineering
    High School: Adams-Friendship HS, Friendship, WI
    Research Title/Area: Energy Storage and Production
    Synopsis: The emphasis on developing greener alternative power sources is needed more now than ever before. Currently, there are many applications of alternative power sources for use in the home, aeronautics, and the automobile industry. The purpose of the majority of alternative power sources today include impacting the environment in a less negative way and steering away from the use of oil based fuels. While there are several types of alternative power sources in aeronautic and automotive vehicles, few have long range capabilities and high rates of efficiency. The applications of regenerative fuel cell systems (RFCS) are type of alternative power source that can be applied throughout a variety of fields, especially in aeronautic and automobile applications. Such systems have been tested to be used with long range aircraft such as the HALE aircraft project. In a project that was conducted by NASA in 2005, the efficiency of a regenerative fuel cell system was tested. Surprisingly, the test overall was a success. However, with NASA’s continuous operating RFCS, there were contributing factors to the systems that caused inefficiencies. It was determined that the fuel cells and thermal insulation were a contributing factor to the system. The goal of this project is to develop a regenerative fuel cell system with a combination of photovoltaic solar array and linear induction generators to charge the fuel cells continuously. This system is aimed to run continuously over the span of three to five days, in addition to being more efficient than the RFCS demonstrated by NASA in 2005.

     

    2008-2009

    Neal Bitter
     Milwaukee School of Engineering
    Majors: Mechanical Engineering, Fluids or Aerodynamics
    High School: Luther Preparatory School, Watertown, WI
    Research Title/Area: Aerodynamics: The Effects of Boundary Layer Tripping on Airfoil Performance
    Synopsis: This research project will examine the effects of boundary layer tripping on airfoil performance.  When air flowing over the surface of a wing encounters an abrupt ridge, the laminar boundary layer transforms into a turbulent boundary layer.  This alters the way in which air flows over the wing profile and affects the drag and lift of the wing.  This project will use calculations from boundary layer theory, wind tunnel testing, and a smoke tunnel with a high-speed camera to optimize flow characteristics over an airfoil.

    Jordan Gerth
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences, Math
    High School: Tremper High School, Kenosha, WI
    Research Title/Area: Enhancing Numerical Weather Prediction Initial Conditions with MODIS
    Synopsis: The wide distribution of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model has led to National Weather Service (NWS) field offices around the country engaging in the process of local numerical weather prediction (NWP).  The manner in which these local WRF models are initialized is typically ineffective.  Better initialization files could be constructed by using satellite data, including observations from the MODIS satellites, Aqua and Terra, and from GOES sounders.

    Dan Hawk
    University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
    Majors: Human Biology, Pre-Nursing, Nutrition, Chemistry
    High School: West De Pere HS, De Pere, WI
    Research Title/Area: Astronaut Advanced Life Support Extended Stay (UGR)
    Synopsis: As we plan to colonize the moon and Mars, perhaps forward thinking for the survival of the human race, the element carbon (C) becomes the single most important element of study.  This project will research the boundaries of carbon regarding lunar and Martian regolith plant stress, such as mixture, surface to volume ratio, photosynthesis or lack thereof (to grow plants in the dark).  This is a carbon sequestration research proposal.  Its applications are relevant to today's global warming threat.

    Michael Heim
    Marquette University
    Majors: Physics, Astronomy, Math
    High School: Wheaton North HS, Wheaton, IL
    Research Title/Area: Radio Observations of Type II Supernovae
    Synopsis: This research project will entail training to learn how to calibrate, edit, and image the VLA radio data taken so it can be analyzed to determine the physical evolution of the observed Supernova explosion and the pre-explosion evolution of the profenitor stars.  By studying these Supernova remnants, it can be learned what the star was doing before it died and deduce what caused these processes.

    Melissa Jacquart
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Astronomy, Physics, Philosophy
    High School: Highland Park Sr. HS, St. Paul, MN
    Research Title/Area: Energy Injection into IGM by AGN
    Synopsis: This is a currently undergoing study that is measuring the amount of energy that has been injected into the intragroup medium by individual active galactic nuclei over the last 100-200Myr.

    Cheryl Perich
    Marquette University
    Major: Mechanical Engineering
    High School: Carl Sandburg HS, Orland Park, IL
    Research Title/Area: Analysis of the Formation and Excavation of a Simulated Planetary Impact Sight
    Synopsis: The main objective of this research program is to investigate the geology and natural resources on other planets, specifically the search for water.  This objective will be obtained by experimentally and numerically simulating the creation and formation of high velocity impact sites on planetary terrain, such as those resulting from a meteoroid impact.

    Cyrus Vandrevala
    Marquette University
    Major: Biomedical Engineering
    High School: Libertyville HS, Libertyville, IL
    Research Title/Area: Radio Astronomy of Supernova
    Synopsis: The goal of this project is to review and analyze any archived data available on Supernovae so more accurate conclusions about the life and death of the massive progenitor can be drawn.

     

    Rachel Worth
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Astronomy-Physics, Music
    High School: Fond du Lac HS, Fond du Lac, WI
    Research Title/Area: The Distribution and Kinematics of Neutral Hydrogen in Dwarf Galaxies Sextans A and B
    Synopsis: Through the study of bubbles in neutral hydrogen in dwarf galaxies, this project will study the effects of massive stars on the interstellar medium. 

     

    2007-2008

    Ruben Behnke
    University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
    Major: Environmental Science
    High School: Hilbert HS, Hilbert, WI
    Research Title/Area: Physical Characteristics of Cities Affecting Urban Climatology
    Synopsis: In the fall of 2006, Behnke conducted research on the effect of city size, city population, city density, and changes in these variables in the period 1960 – 1996 on rates of temperature change in 562 U.S. cities and towns.  He found significant results for the correlation of change in city area to change in temperature; however, city population and city density and changes in these variables in the time period were not significantly correlated to temperature changes.  The significant results achieved in the first study with respect to change in area, as well as the fact that there are many more variables and cities that could be included has given Behnke a very high interest in continuing this study so that it provides useable data for urban and general climatology studies.

     

    Kaitlyn Cariker
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Major: Astronomy-Physics
    High School: R. L. Paschal HS, Fort Worth, TX
    Research Title/Area: Nea Infrared Observations of Galaxies
    Synopsis: Cariker will search for high redshift galaxies.  This project will provide a better understanding of early galaxies and their star formation and ionization rates.

     

      

      

    		 Zachary & Matthew Christman
    University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
    Major: Environmental Science
    High School: Green Bay West HS, Green Bay, WI
    Research Title/Area: Investigation of Extraterrestrial Microtextures at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History
    Synopsis: Textures found at the microscale have not received high quantities of research, which has focused on features visible by the unaided eye, thin sections, and electron microscopes.  The Mars rovers Spirit and Opportunity have brought the need for research in this area to greater attention with their amazing photos of sedimentary structures.  By analyzing microtextures of a variety of surfaces, including those generated by meteorites, a better understanding can be gained of what formed them, and how they change over time.  The research conducted in this study will greatly enhance the knowledge of meteorite microtextures by utilizing the collections of the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.  Information from this work will be added to the NASA Mars Research Library for research and public use.

     

    Jordan Gerth
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Atomospheric and Oceanic Sciences, Math
    High School: Tremper HS, Kenosha, WI
    Research Title/Area: Enhancing Numerical Weather Prediction Initial Conditions by Integrating MODIS Data
    Synopsis: The wide distribution of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model has led to National Weather Service (NWS) field offices around the country engaging in the process of local numerical weather prediction (NWP).  The manner in which these local WRF models are initialized is typically ineffective.  Better initialization files could be constructed by using satellite data, including observations from the MODIS satellites, Aqua and Terra, and from GOES sounders.

    Christopher Heaser
    Marquette University, Milwaukee
    Majors: Physics, Chemistry
    High School: Centennial HS, Circle Pines, MN
    Research Title/Area: Radio Observations of Core-Collapse Supernovae
    Synopsis: Heaser will use the Very Large Array (VLA) to analyze radio observations of various supernovae, the explosive deaths of very massive stars.  He will generate radio light curves that will provide a history of the star’s mass loss rates prior to explosion.

    Toby Heyn
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Mechanical Engineering, Applied Math
    High School: Neenah HS, Neenah, WI
    Research Title/Area: Using New Discrete Modeling Techniques and Large Scale Parallel Computation for Investigation of Sand Dynamics
    Synopsis: Existing algorithms will be applied to the computer simulation of large dynamic multibody systems with contacts and impacts. These methods will be extended to sand simulation through implementation in a parallel computational environment that draws on the Message Passing Interface (MPI) standard.

     

    Chelsey Jelinski
    Milwaukee School of Engineering
    Major: Mechanical Engineering
    High School: Stevens Point Area Senior High, Stevens Point, WI
    Research Title/Area: Low and High Velocity Impact of Spectra®/Carbon Fiber Sandwich Composites
    Synopsis: The topic being studied in this project is the strength and stiffness of different combinations of Spectra and carbon fiber fabric in composite sandwiches subjected to low and high velocity impacts.  It is important to study different materials that could be used in aerospace to make structures lighter and stronger.  These structures are subjected to high velocity impacts such as bird collisions and runway debris or low velocity impacts such as tool drop.  The core study is to test these materials under high velocity impact using a high velocity gas powered gun and under low velocity impact using a drop tower.  This is since necessary even in the absence of fiber breakage; the mechanical performance of the composite sandwiches can be drastically affected.  Although damages may not be seen by the naked eye, matrix cracking and delaminations can significantly weaken the entire structure.  The study will determine the strength of these materials under low and high velocity impacts.

    Kristen Jones
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Physics, Astronomy
    High School: Robbinsdale Cooper HS, New Hope, MN
    Research Title/Area: Observational Cosmology and Radio Astronomy
    Synopsis: This project will build an array of small radio telescopes capable of observing the 21-cm line.  Using these observations, Jones will compare the methods of adding and multiplying interferometry and seek a way to improve the effectiveness of either.

    Anthony Kuchera
    University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
    Major: Physics
    High School: St. Catherine's HS, Racine, WI
    Research Title/Area: Studying the Monoceros Star-Forming Complex
    Synopsis: Kuchera will perform a photometric study of the Monoceros star-forming complex of the Milky Way, which will help establish a homogeneous distance scale to the prominent stellar groups in the field and study its spatial structure.

     

    Timothy Larsen
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Major: Astro-Physics
    High School: Centennial HS, Champaign, IL
    Research Title/Area: The Mass Assembly History of the Universe
    Synopsis: Larsen will continue an ongoing study consisting of spectroscopic analysis of many different fields using multi wavelength data.  From this data, he wants to determine the mass assembly history of the universe.  He will be looking at low red-shift sources (3 > z > 0) and will be adding the results to observations made of high red-shift sources.  This data will then be combined with samples from the Spitzer/IRAC.  With this large set of data, Larsen will then be able to measure and show the history of mass distributions as traced by rest frame H-band.  This will cover a large range of red-shifts (0 < z < 3).

     

    Eric Phillips
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Major: Physics
    High School: Greenfield HS, Greenfield, WI
    Research Title/Area: Mapping the Vertical Stellar Structure of the Galaxy
    Synopsis: While the Milky Way Galaxy's disk is about 600,000 light years across, the thickness of the galaxy in some places can be only about 600 light years thick.  However, this 1000:1 ratio is not a constant throughout the galaxy. Phillips will examine how the structure of the galaxy varies as a function of height, focusing on the vertical structure of the Galactic bar.  To complete this task Phillips will use optical data gathered from Kitt Peak National Observatory and combine it with near and mid-infrared data from other sources.

     

    Nick Schafer
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Physics, Math, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Astronomy
    High School: Omaha North HS, Omaha, NE
    Research Title/Area: An Investigation on New Numerical Methods for Molecular Dynamics Simulation 
    Synopsis: Newly developed implicit and variational integrators will be used to solve benchmark Molecular Dynamics problems and simulation accuracy, robustness, and efficiency will be compared to currently used methods.

    Aaron Willcutt
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Majors: Physics, Engineering
    High School: Faribault HS, Faribault, MN
    Research Title/Area: Discovery and Measurement of Far-Infrared Laser Emissions
    Synopsis: The object of this research is to discover laser emissions from the 13CHD2OH isotopic form of methanol in the far-infrared (FIR) region.  Once discovered, the FIR laser emissions will be characterized and their frequencies measured.

    2006-2007

    Quintin Bendixen
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Major: Geoscience
    High School: Eisenhower HS, New Berlin, WI
    Research Title/Area: Planetary Geology
    Synopsis: The cold and dry continent of Antarctica can be used as a Martian analogue. Found within the Allan Hills, Antarctica are eolian formed dunes consisting of gravel clasts that could mimic the landscape of Mars.

    Gustav Borstad
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Majors: Physics and Mathematics
    High School: Independent Study HS, Lincoln, NE
    Research Title/Area: Investigation of the Hydroxyl Radical Using Laser Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
    Synopsis: The object of the proposed research is to investigate the hydroxyl free radical through the use of high-resolution spectroscopy in the far-infrared. The experimental technique used to probe this molecule is known as laser magnetic resonance.

    Joshua Hakala
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Major: Physics w/ Astronomy emphasis
    High School: Elkhart Lake HS, Elkhart Lake, WI
    Research Title/Area: Interstellar Medium – Astronomy
    Synopsis: When massive stars die, they explode, sending an expanding shell into the surrounding interstellar medium (ISM). Using H-a images, we will compare maps of ionized and neutral hydrogen to learn how the shell is interacting with the ISM.

    Adam Hinkle
    Marquette University
    Major: Physics
    High School: Hayden HS,Topeka, KS
    Research Title/Area: Theoretical Physics; Cosmology
    Synopsis: A Lorentz-violating theory, the Standard Model Extension (SME) exists which provides a picture of new physics lying just beyond conventional theory and experiment. Additionally, recent cosmological observations and measurements are providing rich data for confirmation of theories of our universe, in particular, confirmation of Lorentz violation in nature. One such measurement that of the cosmic microwave background (CMB) has invited a special opportunity to study the SME. My proposed project is an analysis using theoretical and numerical techniques to identify the nature of Lorentz violation in the polarization of the CMB.

    Matthew Kelley
    Marquette University
    Major: Physics
    High School: Spencer HS, Spencer, WI
    Research Title/Area: Radio Analysis of Core Collapse Supernovae
    Synopsis: I will study core collapse supernovae by measuring their radio waves emitted as the shock interacts with the circum stellar material. By doing this I will be studying the evolution of the progenitor before the explosion. Through long term monitoring of supernovae, a model can be created to describe them. By understanding supernovae, we may be able to understand things like distances and gamma ray bursts better.

    Patrick Liesch
    University of Wisconsin-Parkside
    Major: Biology
    High School: JI Case HS, Racine, WI
    Research Title/Area: Astrobiology - Role of Organic Silicates in the Biomineralization Process
    Synopsis: Polymerization of silicic acid occurs rapidly when added to many of the amino acids and their Maillard products. There are essentially two mechanisms for the preservation of amino acids and Maillard products in silicates. First, the amino acids or Maillard products could simply be entombed during the polymerization process. Secondly, the amino acids or Maillard products could react to bond to the silica gel. Infrared spectroscopy will be used to investigate these possibilities by focusing on the 1000-1200 cm-1 region, where the Si-O-Si and Si-O-C bond frequencies can be found. Deuteration will help resolve the peaks in the infrared spectra. Column chromatography will also be used to investigate the possibility that amino acids and their Maillard products bind to silicic acid but remain in a soluble form.

    Allison Noble
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Physics and Astrophysics
    High School: Homestead HS, Mequon, WI
    Research Title/Area: Cosmology
    Synopsis: I propose to build and erect three small radio telescopes on the roof of the physics building, Chamberlin, in order to develop and test new techniques for interferometry. An interferometer is an array of telescopes that combines signals to generate a higher resolution image of the sky than a single, smaller antenna can create by itself. I will build and compare an “adding interferometer” with a “multiplying interferometer.” My results will be used to design the millimeter-wave bolometric interferometer (MBI), a 1000-telescope array that will measure the polarization anisotropy—variation in the polarization that depends upon the direction of its measurement—of the cosmic microwave background radiation. These faint fluctuations, a result of primordial gravitational waves produced during the period of inflation directly after the Big Bang, will shed light on the physics of the early universe. My research will help to limit systematic error of the instrument and contribute to the success of MBI, a prototype for NASA’s Einstein Inflation Probe. I also propose to create an outreach program in which the community will have access to the telescopes to elicit scientific interest amongst students.

    Sarah Palmer
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse
    Majors: Physics and Math
    High School: Lincoln High School, Manitowoc, WI
    Research Title/Area: OVI line from the Eridanus Superbubble
    Synopsis: Measurements of OVI emission in the direction of the Eridanus superbubble will help unlock information about the interstellar medium.

    Melania Riabokin
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Majors: Astronomy and Physics
    High School: Conserve HS, Land O' Lakes, WI
    Research Title/Area: Astrophysics
    Synopsis: This proposed research project consists of taking data on the HI in a selected group of magellanic spiral galaxies (both interacting and non-interacting) in order to reach a conclusion regarding the galaxies’ asymmetry. The visual data that is gathered on the galaxies is not sufficient to produce accurate approximating of mass in the galaxies because about 90% of the matter in them is ‘dark’ or not detectable in the visible light images of galaxies.

    Benjamin Rizzo
    Marquette University
    Major: Physics
    High School: Marquette University HS, Milwaukee, WI
    Research Title/Area: Atmospheric Models (Mars)
    Synopsis: Numerical modeling techniques of the Earth’s atmosphere has proven useful when applied to the atmosphere of Mars. With this past year’s efforts at Marquette University, atmospheric models have been used to study the convection and turbulence conditions of the Martian atmosphere. However, further analysis is required for a more accurate depiction of the weather conditions present on Mars. This year’s proposal seeks to build upon our previous work by introducing the effects of ambient wind. These models have the potential to be useful tools in predicting prospective landing sites for further Mars research while providing a means to model the atmosphere of other planets.

    Alex Viana
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Major: Astrophysics
    High School: Oak Park River Forest HS, Oak Park, IL
    Research Title/Area: Galactic Evolution and Asymmetry
    Synopsis: Our project proposes a multispectral investigation quantifying point and axial asymmetries in an isolated set of galaxies in order to test for a correlation between asymmetric gravitational potentials and non-interacting galaxies.

    2005-2006

    Bustamante, Jennifer
    Marquette University
    Major/Title:  A Study of Convective Patterns in the Atmosphere of Mars

    Garrod, Toby
    UW-La Crosse
    Major/Title:  Frequency Measurements of Optically Pumped Laser Emissions in the Far-infrared

    Gneiser, Heidi
    UW-Whitewater
    Major/Title:  Exploring W 43

    Harrington, Alex
    UW-Madison
    Major/Title:  Validating Numerical Forecasts Using GOES Satellite Products

    Kaeppler, Stephen
    UW-Madison
    Major/Title:  Mass Segregation and Binary Stars in Star Clusters NGC 188, M35, and NGC 6819

    Krzyzewski, Sean
    Marquette University
    Major/Title:  VLBA Observations of J0253&3835, A Relativistic Jet with Extreme Bending

    Marschke, Laura
    UW-La Crosse
    Major/Title:  Pulsars: A Key to Unlocking the Interstellar Medium

    Stilp, Adrienne
    UW-Madison
    Major/Title:  The Evolution of Small Groups of Galaxies as Studied through Neutral Hydrogen

    Viana, Alex
    UW-Madison
    Major/Title:  A Study of the Relationships of Star Formation Rates and Galactic Interactions on Asymmetric Galaxies

    2004-2005

    Jennifer Bustamante
    Marquette University
    Research: Astronomy: Photometric observations for the Transit Search Project
    Synopsis: Transit Search is a differential photometry project designed to locate extrasolar planets. Stars are monitored using CCD-imaging in attempt to detect a small decrease in light on the order of 1-10% that would indicate a transiting planet.

    Sabrina Dechene
    Marquette University
    Research: Radio Study of J1628-41a, Testing Physics with a Microquasar
    Synopsis: Microquasars are physics laboratories which can be used to observe special and general relativity. I will be studying long-term observations of the microquasar J1628-41a so that I can better explain the frequent jet outbursts of this source.

    Rebecca Grundy
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research: Dark Matter in Groups of Galaxies
    Synopsis: The vast majority of galaxies, including the Milky Way, reside in loose groups. A group is a small collection of 4-5 large galaxies and up to 25 small galaxies. Matter is not evenly dispersed throughout the Universe with most of the dark matter and baryon distribution in the intergalactic medium. It is important to understand the evolution that lead to this and why it continues to stay bounded together. The dynamical evolution of groups and the impact that has on the galaxies is relatively understudied. One of the major barriers to studying this has been the difficulty of determining proper group membership. Accurate radial velocities are needed in order to determine if a group is a bound entity, and multi-object spectroscopy allows one to establish group membership from radial velocities for a large number of galaxies at once. I will be calibrating and analyzing already obtained data of the NGC 664 galaxy group. The data was obtained using the multi-object spectrograph on the WIYN 3.5 meter telescope. I will learn how to use IRAF software, which is a software package designed for the calibration and analysis of optical astronomical data. With that software, I will be able to determine which galaxies are members of the group and work out the radial velocity of each membered galaxy by comparing the observed wavelength of their emission line(s) to the respective rest wavelength(s). I will plot the distribution of the radial velocities and by measuring the width of that distribution I can find the velocity dispersion and determine the total dynamical mass of NGC 664.

    Alex Harrington
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research: Undergraduate Research for CIMSS
    Synopsis: Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) products, along with NASA satellite products, provide plausible options for validation. Qualitative analysis of CRAS satellite products, provide plausible options for validation. Qualitative analysis of CRAS satellite forecasts, correlated with actual GOES infrared and water vapor imagery will investigate the reality, or perhaps find discrepancies in the capability of the CRAS to forecast notable system features. Similarly, using NASA MODerate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), a satellite instrument with high spatial resolution, one can qualitatively note satellite features, but more importantly, compare how satellite forecasts, as depicted by the CRAS, correspond to MODIS versus GOES. Do the results from the CRAS favor MODIS or GOES imagery? Specifically, I will save data throughout the month of June. With the CRAS model updating twice daily, I will save forecasted satellite imagery, explicitly infrared and water vapor images. I will then validate these images with corresponding GOES and MODIS imagery. Again, this technique only offers qualitative results. Therefore, I will save forecasted brightness temperatures, as depicted by the CRAS, validating the forecast with actual brightness temperatures. For objective comparisons, I will implement a statistical package that includes the following: Root Mean Square (RMS), threat scores, and gradient skill scores. Results will show that forecasted satellite imagery and brightness temperatures can be a useful tool for forecasters and numerical modelers. Furthermore, a website showing the progress and results of the research would certainly benefit NASA, numerical models, as well as the general public.

    Stephen Kaeppler
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research: Observational Cosmology - Cosmic Microwave Background
    Synopsis: Superconducting microstrips might be the way of the future for transportation of signal between an antenna and the detector in observation of the Cosmic Microwave Background. Little previous research has been done on the topic and if this proves to be a useful technology, detectors and feed lines could be put onto single integrated circuits. The main measurement of the microstrips will be the power loss by using a “slit” test which varies length. The power loss of the feed line is to be minimized, and if an optimal design can be found, detector/microstrip coupling can be tested next.

    Julie Karel
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research: Deformation Induced Nanocrystalline in Amorphous Aluminum Alloys
    Synopsis: Amorphous aluminum alloys with finely dispersed aluminum nanocrystals have exhibited ultra high tensile strengths and useful ductility while still maintaining lower densities. Unfortunately, not enough is known about the behavior of the nanocrystalline microstructure to make these alloys useful yet. Potential applications include lightweight materials, which would make these alloys extremely useful in the aerospace industry as a possible substitute for their denser, more expensive titanium-alloy counterparts. I will be studying how mechanical work performed on aluminum-rich metallic glasses effects the densities of nanocrystals that are present. It is hypothesized that greater densities of nanocrystals can be achieved than from thermal treatment alone. I will synthesize these amorphous aluminum alloys, characterize them based on their microstructure and determine the density of nanocrystals present. If a large density is present, this will provide an opportunity to study the impact of the novel nanocrystalline microstructure on structural properties. More specifically the measurement of elastic properties and other mechanical properties such as tensile strength and fatigue characteristics would allow for a determination of whether novel microstructures also exhibit superior properties. These superior properties are what would be of great benefit for future applications in the aerospace industry.

    Brian Kaster
    Marquette University
    Research: Radio wave emissions from type II supernovae
    Synopsis: When a star dies, a couple of different things can happen. After the collapse of the core, there can be thermal detonations, further collapses in to neutron stars or black holes, or supernovae. Supernovae are created when the core rebounds after collapse, creating a shockwave that is propelled out of the core. In type Ib/c and type II supernovae, this shockwave interacts with the cloud of gas that, during the life of the star, was stripped off and collected near the star. The interaction with this shockwave and the cloud of gas creates a radio signal that we receive in with the Very Large Array. After the data is flagged, calibrated, and imaged, analysis can proceed. Here the data is graphed as flux verses time on a logarithmic scale, creating a typical light curve. Variations in this light curve are the focus of the research. We use these data sets to try and explain the supernovae and events around them.

    Christopher Klug
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Research: Geological Research involving Permian- Triassic Boundary and possible extraterrestrial cause
    Synopsis: The Permian-Triassic boundary is now being viewed more and more as a location marking an extraterrestrial impact event. The data of this study will determine, if a conformable boundary exists in northwestern Nevada.

    Adrienne Stilp
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research: The Effects of Massive Stars on the Evolution of Galaxy NGC 4395
    Synopsis: Active star formation does not occur in every galaxy in our Universe; those which are currently forming stars, known as “starbursts galaxies,” have many unusual properties. Both high and low mass stars and formed during episodes of star formation; however, because massive stars live for a much shorter time than their lower mass companions, starburst galaxies contain a much higher relative population of high to low mass stars than that of regular galaxies. Therefore, their effects on galactic evolution are much more easily witnessed in starburst galaxies. Stellar winds and supernovae explosions (SNe) from these massive stars affect the gas content of a galaxy, one of its primary components, by creating holes of ionized hydrogen gas and surrounding shells of H-alpha emission. Therefore, observations of both stellar populations, neutral hydrogen gas (HI), and H-alpha kinematics each factor into understanding the effects of massive stars on a galaxy’s evolution. I propose a comprehensive study of a single galaxy, NGC 4395, in which I will probe the stars’ effects on HI and H-alpha emission in order to correlate stellar winds and SNe with observed effects on the gaseous counterpart of the galaxy. The final goal of the project is to combine the analysis of the effects of massive stars with currently-accepted theories of galactic evolution.

    Michael Theisen
    University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
    Research: Frequency Measurements of Far-Infrared Laser Emissions
    Synopsis: The C-13 isotope of methanol, 13CH3OH, has been found to generate over 175 FIR laser emissions. Recently, seventeen FIR laser emission were discovered from this isotope and were reported with their measured wavelengths and operating characteristics (polarization, operating pressure, and relative intensity). Of the seventeen lines, spectroscopic assignments have been proposed for nine laser emissions. These spectroscopic assignments, however, can only be confirmed with the measurement of their frequencies. The goal of this work is to measure these frequencies and confirm their spectroscopic assignments.

    Melanie Vils
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research: The Rotational Velocities and Masses of Luminous Compact Blue Galaxies
    Synopsis: The purpose of this project is to determine the rotational velocities, if any, of the twelve intermediate redshift, luminous compact blue galaxies from long-slit spectra. These results will then be used to make mass distribution estimates.

    2003-2004 Undergraduate Research Award Recipients

    Bloom, Amelia
    UW-La Crosse
    Research:  Nuclear Physics

    DiRocco, Christopher
    UW-La Crosse
    Research:  High Resolution Spectroscopy of Carbon-based Free Radicals in the Infrared

    Grcevich, Jana
    UW-Madison
    Research:  Extragalactic Astronomy-Galaxy Kinematics and the Impact of Massive Stars on their Host Galaxy

    Kern, Katie
    UW-Madison
    Research:  Researching the difference between active and inactive galaxies using radio data from the Very Large Array

    Noffke, Paul
    UW-La Crosse
    Research:  Discovery of Laser Emissions from Methanol Isotopes

    Powell, Jeffrey
    UW-La Crosse
    Research:  Euclidean and Color Dielectric Lattices and the Quark-Antiquark Potential

    2002-2003 Undergraduate Research Award Recipients

    Bierman, Matthew
    UW-LaCrosse
    Research:  Particle Physics Relating to Stellar Objects

    Gaal, Veronika
    UW-Madison
    Research:  Structure & Evolution of Galaxies Through a Case Study of NGC1507

    Nencka, Andrew
    Marquette
    Research:  Astrophysics

    Norman, Ryan
    UW-Milwaukee
    Research:  Space Radiation Shielding & Particle Physics

    Stark, Daniel
    UW-Madison
    Research:  Astronomy-Massive Star Formation Theory

    Sutton, Daniel
    UW-LaCrosse
    Research:  High resolution Spectroscopy of Free Radicals in the Far-Infrared

    2001-2002 Undergraduate Research Award Recipients

    Andrew Bowers
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Research:  Use of Hubble Space Telescope to Study Scattering in New Galaxies

    Daniel Bush
    University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
    Research:  Spectroscopy of Globular Clusters in the Galactic Halo

    Natalie Fuchs
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse
    Research:  Optics Research - Far Infrared Laser Stark Spectoscopy

    Angel Gladney
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Research:  Why Few African-Americans are Interested in Space Science Programs

    Jennifer Jeschke
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research:  Theoretical Particle Physics

    Jeffrey Paradis
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Research:  Observations at Yerkes Observatory to Study Dark Matter

    Maria Spletter
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Plant Biology

    John Sullivan
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse
    Research:  Frequency Measurements and Stark Spectroscopy of CH30D Using Molecular Lasers in the Far-Infrared

    JoAnne Turner
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Efficacy of Growth Hormone as a Counter Measure for Space Flight-Induced Musculoskeletal Atrophy

    2000-2001 Undergraduate Research Award Recipients

    Amy J. Anschutz
    Carroll College
    Research:  Study of Small Molecular clusters

    Jeannette M. Curran
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
    Research:  Ways to use the vast material at NASA to teach Mathematics

    Heidi J. Hockel
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse
    Research:  Detect & measure new laser emissions from an optically pumped molecular laser

    Justin E. Seipel
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research:  Aerodynamics: incompressible, subsonic flow over airfoil

    Jodi A. Supanich
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Observational Cosmology: Cosmic microwave background radiation

    Mark P. Supanich
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Study of atmospheric polarization & the anisotropy of the cosmic microwave background radiation

    1999-2000 Undergraduate Research Award Recipients

    Efrat Lelkes
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Effects of Microgravity on Cultured Cells

    Kenneth Rewolinski
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research:  Surface Studies Related to Metal-Oxide Absorption of Water

    Nicholas G. Roland
    University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse
    Research:  High Resolution Spectroscopy of Interstellar Molecules

    Mark P. Supanich
    University of Wisconsin-Madison
    Research:  Observational Cosmology Focusing on Anisotropy Measurements of the Cosmic Microwave Background

    Randy W. Wolfmeyer
    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
    Research:  Cosmology-Inflation Theory
    UW-Green Bay National Space Grant Foundation