The Search For Slow Particles And Magnetic Monopoles With Nova,
2025
University of South Alabama
The Search For Slow Particles And Magnetic Monopoles With Nova, John Clark
Poster Presentations
Singular magnetic poles, north or south, have been theorized to exist for hundreds of years. In the modern day, the elusive singular magnetic pole still remains undiscovered. The appearance of this particle would help confirm many Grand Unified Theories, GUTs, and revolutionize our understanding of some of the fundamental forces of the universe. Fermilab's NOvA collaboration is working on ways to screen and detect magnetic monopoles and other slow-moving particles coming from outer space alongside their main mission to study neutrinos. The aim of this work is to determine and improve the Far Detector’s efficiency at identifying slow moving particles. …
Simulations Of Magnetar Spin-Down Lifetimes Using Magnetic Braking Models,
2025
Murray State University
Simulations Of Magnetar Spin-Down Lifetimes Using Magnetic Braking Models, Sophie Wessel
Honors College Theses
The beginnings of magnetar lifetimes are not very well understood. It is important to improve our understanding of magnetar origins in order to investigate possible evolutionary connections to other classes of NS, such as X-ray dim isolated NSs (XDINSs). Here we follow in the steps of another paper1 in modeling the spin evolution of magnetars, utilizing two avenues of evolution: one involving exponential B-field decay, and the other involving suband super-exponential B-field decay. We replicate the results of the paper, utilizing Monte Carlo methods to generate and evolve synthetic populations of magnetars, which are then compared to the current known …
From The University To The Universe: Byu’S West Mountain Observatory,
2025
Brigham Young University - Provo
From The University To The Universe: Byu’S West Mountain Observatory, Amber Zendejas, Dan Broadbent
BYU West Mountain Observatory Project
Brigham Young University’s West Mountain Observatory (WMO) is a research facility that offers primarily undergraduate students valuable mentoring and hands-on learning opportunities. Established in 1981, the observatory was built in response to increasing light pollution in Provo, Utah, which began affecting research at the Orson Pratt Observatory (OPO) atop the Eyring Science Center on the BYU main campus. Before WMO was created, OPO served as the primary observatory for astronomical research at BYU. Construction plans for a new observatory began in the late 1970s, as university planners and astronomers sought a location with minimal light pollution, favorable elevation, relatively easy …
Hα Variability Of Ab Aur B With The Hubble Space Telescope: Probing The Nature Of A Protoplanet Candidate With Accretion Light Echoes,
2025
University of California, Santa Barbara
Hα Variability Of Ab Aur B With The Hubble Space Telescope: Probing The Nature Of A Protoplanet Candidate With Accretion Light Echoes, Brendan P. Bowler, Yifan Zhou, Lauren I. Biddle, Lillian Yushu Jiang, Jaehan Bae, Laird M. Close, Katherine B. Follette, Kyle Franson, Adam L. Kraus, Aniket Sanghi, Quang Tran, Kimberly Ward-Duong, Ya Lin Wu, Zhaohuan Zhu
Astronomy: Faculty Publications
Giant planets generate accretion luminosity as they form. Much of this energy is radiated in strong Hα line emission, which has motivated direct imaging surveys at optical wavelengths to search for accreting protoplanets. However, compact disk structures can mimic accreting planets by scattering emission from the host star. This can complicate the interpretation of Hα point sources, especially if the host star itself is accreting. We describe an approach to distinguish accreting protoplanets from scattered-light disk features using “accretion light echoes.” This method relies on variable Hα emission from a stochastically accreting host star to search for a delayed brightness …
Effects Of The Gravity Gradient On The Path Of 1i/‘Oumuamua,
2025
University of South Alabama
Effects Of The Gravity Gradient On The Path Of 1i/‘Oumuamua, Hannah R. Richardson
Poster Presentations
In October 2017, the asteroid 1I/’Oumuamua first passed into viewing range [1]. The asteroid is notable for being the first interstellar object to enter the solar system. 1I/’Oumuamua was also unusual in its geometry; it is thought to have an aspect ratio of 6:1 and a length of approximately 400 m [2] [3]. The asteroid was observed to experience a non-Keplerian acceleration estimated to be on the order of 1×10−6 m s-2 Several theories have been proposed for the cause of this acceleration, all of which are non-gravitational in nature: volatile outgassing, photon pressure, and solar winds [1][4]. However, none …
Jwst Reveals The Diversity Of Nuclear Obscuring Dust In Nearby Agn: Nuclear Isolation Of Miri/Mrs Data Cubes And Continuum Spectral Fitting,
2025
University of South Carolina
Jwst Reveals The Diversity Of Nuclear Obscuring Dust In Nearby Agn: Nuclear Isolation Of Miri/Mrs Data Cubes And Continuum Spectral Fitting, Omaira González-Martín, Daniel J. Díaz-González, Mariela Martínez-Paredes, Almudena Alonso-Herrero, Enrique López-Rodríguez, Begoña García-Lorenzo, Cristina Ramos Almeida, Ismael García-Bernete, Donaji Esparza-Arredondo, Sebastian F. Hoenig, Santiago García-Burillo, Chris Packham, Nancy A. Levenson, Alvaro Labiano, Miguel Pereira-Santaella, Francoise Combes, Anelise Audibert, Erin K.S. Hicks, Lulu Zhang, Enrica Bellocchi, Richard I. Davies, Laura Hermosa Muñoz, Masatoshi Imanishi, Claudio Ricci, Marko Stalevski
Faculty Publications
We investigate the capabilities of the mid-infrared instrument (MIRI) of JWST to advance our knowledge of active galactic nucleus (AGN) dust using the spectral fitting technique on an AGN collection of 21 nearby (z < 0.05) AGN (7 type-1 and 14 type-2) observations obtained with the medium resolution spectroscopy (MRS) mode. This collection includes publicly available AGN and data from the collaboration of Galactic Activity, Torus, and Outflow Survey (GATOS). We developed a tool named MRSPSFisol that decomposes MRS cubes into point-like and extended contributions. We found statistically good fits for 12 targets with current AGN dust models. The model that provides good fits (χ2/dof< 2) for these 12 targets assumes a combination of clumpy and smooth distribution of dust in a flare-disc geometry where the dust grain size is a free parameter. Still, two and one AGN statistically prefer the disc + wind and the classical clumpy torus model, respectively. However, the currently available models fail to reproduce 40 per cent of the targets, likely due to the extreme silicate features not well reproduced by the models and signatures of water-ice and aliphatic hydrocarbon absorption features in most targets. New models exploring, for instance, new chemistry, are needed to explain the complexity of AGN dust continuum emission observed by JWST.
Effects Of The Gravity Gradient On The Path Of 1i/‘Oumuamua,
2025
University of South Alabama
Effects Of The Gravity Gradient On The Path Of 1i/‘Oumuamua, Hannah R. Richardson
Honors Theses
In October 2017, the asteroid 1I/’Oumuamua first passed into viewing range [1]. The asteroid is notable for being the first interstellar object to enter the solar system. 1I/’Oumuamua was also unusual in its geometry; it is thought to have an aspect ratio of 6:1 and a length of approximately 400 m [2] [3]. The asteroid was observed to experience a non-Keplerian acceleration estimated to be on the order of 1⇥10−6 m s2 . Several theories have been proposed for the cause of this acceleration, all of which are non-gravitational in nature: volatile outgassing, photon pressure, and solar winds [1][4]. However, …
The Search For Slow Particles And Magnetic Monopoles With Nova,
2025
University of South Alabama
The Search For Slow Particles And Magnetic Monopoles With Nova, John Clark
Honors Theses
Singular magnetic poles, north or south, have been theorized to exist for hundreds of years. In the modern day, the elusive singular magnetic pole still remains undiscovered. The appearance of this particle would help confirm many Grand Unified Theories, GUTs, and revolutionize our understanding of some of the fundamental forces of the universe. Fermilab's NOvA collaboration is working on ways to screen and detect magnetic monopoles and other slow-moving particles coming from outer space alongside their main mission to study neutrinos. The aim of this work is to determine and improve the Far Detector’s efficiency at identifying slow moving particles. …
An Integrative Approach To Einstein’S Field Equations Of General Relativity For High School Students,
2025
Liberty University
An Integrative Approach To Einstein’S Field Equations Of General Relativity For High School Students, Christina M. Aintablian
Senior Honors Theses
Einstein’s Field Equations form the foundation of the theory of General Relativity, describing the interdependence of mass-energy and spacetime curvature, where curvature gives rise to gravity. However, the complexity of these equations makes them difficult for high school students to grasp. The mathematical framework of General Relativity is introduced step by step, beginning with relative motion and culminating in a discussion of complex phenomena that challenge modern physics. Each explanation intertwines core concepts of relativity with pre-established mental models to enhance learning. Through the use of figures, analogies, narratives, and thought experiments, a structured framework is developed to make relativity …
A Spectroscopic Survey Of Atmospheres Of Super-Earths,
2025
The University of Southern Mississippi
A Spectroscopic Survey Of Atmospheres Of Super-Earths, Luke Brust
Honors Theses
Recent research has made it possible to use spectroscopy to analyze the composition of the atmospheres of exoplanets, planets that orbit other stars. Most projects thus far have focused on the atmospheres of gas giants, as it is less challenging to observe them with available equipment. This project studies the atmospheres of four Super- Earths, planets that have a mass greater than the Earth but smaller than Neptune. This is accomplished by processing the raw spectroscopic data from the Hubble Space Telescope and modeling the atmosphere using the program 𝝉-Rex3. This survey found clear results from two of the selected …
Impact Of Magnetic Fields On Cosmic Ray Density In Molecular Clouds,
2025
University of Texas at El Paso
Impact Of Magnetic Fields On Cosmic Ray Density In Molecular Clouds, Byron Jesus Encinas Velazquez
Open Access Theses & Dissertations
We investigate the effects caused by Cosmic Rays (CRs) in a Molecular Clouds (MCs) environment and the effects of varied magnetic field configurations in the core (r = 1 Pc ) of a MC. We take as initial conditions for the interstellar medium a product of various supernova explosions as injected initial perturbation and observe the evolution during the timescale of ~4.5 Myrs. We compute the CR reduction factor R as a measure of the density of a distribution of particles traveling with a guiding center along randomized field lines near the core and discuss their impact on the ionization …
Probing The 'Mev Gap': Discovery And Characterization Of Persistent And Transient Mev-Gev Gamma-Ray Sources With The Fermi Large Area Telescoope,
2025
Clemson University
Probing The 'Mev Gap': Discovery And Characterization Of Persistent And Transient Mev-Gev Gamma-Ray Sources With The Fermi Large Area Telescoope, Scott Joffre
All Dissertations
The MeV Gap is a moniker for the energy regime E~0.1-100 MeV that has lacked sensitive observations for the last 20 years. This is not out of scientific disinterest, but observational challenges. The only instrument currently available to make observations in the MeV Gap is the Fermi Large Area Telescope (LAT). For the first time ever, Fermi-LAT has been leveraged to push its observational capabilities to its absolute lower energy limit to end this 20-year observational gap. Observing the MeV sky is imperative for identifying some of the most luminous galaxies in the Universe known as blazars. The brightest blazars …
The Effect Of Nuclear Isomers On S-Process Nucleosynthesis,
2025
Clemson University
The Effect Of Nuclear Isomers On S-Process Nucleosynthesis, Jaad Tannous
All Dissertations
s-Process nucleosynthesis is a process in which stars produce elements of mass range A = 57 to 210. Since the days of B2FH, immense work has gone into quantifying and computing s-process yields and pathways. We expand upon said work along two fronts. The first front sets up the framework for proper treatment of nuclear isomers in network calculations. We apply the framework to study 85Kr, which is a pivotal isotope in the s-process chain that affects the abundance yields of Strontium and Rubidium isotopes. In particular, we are interested in the ratio of 88Sr/86Sr and 87Rb which are important …
Constraining Neutron Star Kicks Through Gravitational Wave Detection,
2025
University of Arkansas, Fayetteville
Constraining Neutron Star Kicks Through Gravitational Wave Detection, James Phillips
Graduate Theses and Dissertations
Neutron stars have, on average, much higher proper motions than those of hot and bright O and B type main sequence stars. Thus, it is widely suspected that asymmetries in core-collapse supernovae provide a substantial kick to these compact objects at birth. Gen- eral Relativity predicts that such supernova asymmetries will generate bursts of gravitational radiation, though no such burst has been yet detected. Here we argue that the polarization amplitudes of those gravitational waves can be used to calculate the kicks imparted on that nascent neutron star. We begin by reviewing the evidence for natal kicks, then we describe …
Dissolving Sand Into Fog - Portraying Long Term Temporal Illusions Through Music,
2025
Bowling Green State University
Dissolving Sand Into Fog - Portraying Long Term Temporal Illusions Through Music, Kyle Bergler
Honors Projects
Long-term temporal illusions permeate our day-to-day lives, but due to their highly subjective nature, few are familiar with them. To help introduce these topics in a way that lets a wider audience connect individually with them, I composed three works for percussion ensembles, each in a different style, and each portraying one or multiple long-term temporal illusions. All of these pieces were composed and rehearsed throughout the spring 2025 semester and premiered at my senior recital on April 19, 2025.
Global Ionospheric F Region Parameters From Gnss-Pod Limb Measurements: Evaluations And Comparisons With Two Empirical Models - Iri-2020 And Nequick-2,
2025
NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Global Ionospheric F Region Parameters From Gnss-Pod Limb Measurements: Evaluations And Comparisons With Two Empirical Models - Iri-2020 And Nequick-2, Nimalan Swarnalingam, Dong L. Wu, Dieter Bilitza, Daniel J. Emmons, Cornelius Csar Jude H. Salinas, Artem Smirnov, Yenca Migoya-Oru
Faculty Publications
An optimal estimation (OE) technique has recently been developed for F region electron density (Ne) using Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) limb sounding on low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites (COSMIC-2, Spire, and FengYun-3). This method provides unprecedented spatiotemporal sampling for global monthly Ne climatology within 100–500 km in 2 hr intervals. The global dataset, collected during mid to moderately high solar activity, is compared with leading models: IRI-2020 and NeQuick-2. Diurnal variations in summer, winter, and equinoctial months are examined for the F2-layer peak, as well as the topside and bottomside of the F region. The observed and modeled NmF2 …
Extraterrestrial - Why They're Almost Certainly Out There,
2025
Lindenwood University
Extraterrestrial - Why They're Almost Certainly Out There, Marcus Brown
2025 Student Academic Showcase
This was an essay I did for my English Composition II class. It’s evaluating an argument from a TED talk of my choice. The TED talk I chose for this writing project was "Extraterrestrial’s - Why They’re Almost Certainly Out There” by Chris Crowe talking about the many exoplanets out there in our universe and beyond. The presentation explains the different sizes, the atmosphere, and the number of exoplanets capable of hosting life. The statistics were used in this analysis like the amount of hydrogen dioxide on each exoplanet. I had to determine if Chris Crowe did a good job …
There's A Method To This Physics Madness,
2025
Ursinus College
There's A Method To This Physics Madness, Hanna J. Ross
Physics and Astronomy Presentations
Physics tends to be seen by the general public as scary and unattainable, especially for students who are non-STEM majors. However, at Ursinus College (as well as many other institutions) the professors employ the use of specific problem-solving strategy instruction to mitigate these fears and further general problem solving skills. This study reviews previous experiments evaluating the merit of this strategy and analyzes its results as it relates to Physics on Screen, a physics class at Ursinus geared specifically towards non-majors.
Rings Of Ice,
2025
Parkland College
Rings Of Ice, Erik Johnson
Natural Science Faculty
Have you ever seen the Milky Way? For most Americans, it is impossible to see the band of light from the galaxy outside their homes. To be able to experience the night sky as our ancestors did, we have to travel to places away from light pollution. International Dark Sky Week, which is happening April 22–30 this year, celebrates the night sky and offers everyone a chance to reflect on the lighting choices made around their home and in their community.
Search For Continuous Gravitational Waves From Known Pulsars In The First Part Of The Fourth Ligo-Virgo-Kagra Observing Run,
2025
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Search For Continuous Gravitational Waves From Known Pulsars In The First Part Of The Fourth Ligo-Virgo-Kagra Observing Run, A. G. Abac, R. Abbott, I. Abouelfettouh, F. Acernese, Teviet Creighton, Mario C. Diaz, Francisco Llamas Villarreal, Soma Mukherjee, Volker Quetschke, Wenhui Wang
Physics & Astronomy Faculty Publications
Continuous gravitational waves (CWs) emission from neutron stars carries information about their internal structure and equation of state, and it can provide tests of general relativity. We present a search for CWs from a set of 45 known pulsars in the first part of the fourth LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA observing run, known as O4a. We conducted a targeted search for each pulsar using three independent analysis methods considering single-harmonic and dual-harmonic emission models. We find no evidence of a CW signal in O4a data for both models and set upper limits on the signal amplitude and on the ellipticity, which quantifies the …
