Astrophysics & Planetary Sciences Colloquium
TBA
Results from the Emirates Mars Mission: Up, Down, and All Around
Abstract: The Emirates Mars Mission (EMM) began its science phase on May 23, 2021, and has been making major contributions to the exploration of Mars' atmosphere on a global scale. From its weather-satellite-like orbit with a period of 55 hours, the Hope Probe uses its infrared, visible, and ultraviolet remote sensing instruments to measure the characteristics of the atmosphere extending from the surface all the way to the edge of space.
Omega Centauri: The Nearest Galaxy Nucleus
Abstract: Galaxy centers are extremal environments that frequently host supermassive black holes and uniquely dense and massive star clusters. In my talk I will focus on our understanding of these objects and their formation through the lens of our nearest galaxy nucleus, the star cluster Omega Centauri.
Frontiers in Astronomy Education: From Astro 101 to Astronomy Majors
Abstract: The past 20 years have seen significant advancements in the teaching and learning in college-level Astronomy, with a particular focus on the introductory general education course (hereafter Astro 101). In recent years collaborators with the Center for Astronomy Education (CAE) have undertaken a theoretical approach to develop a new generation of instructional strategies. Beyond advancements in the teaching of Astro 101, this work has bridged to the teaching of Astronomy Majors courses.
A Merging of Worlds: Combining the Planetary and Exoplanetary Sciences
Abstract: Underpinning planetary science is a deep history of observation and, more recently, robotic exploration within the Solar System, from which models of planetary processes have been constructed. Concurrently, thousands of planets have been discovered outside our Solar System that exhibit enormous diversity, and their large numbers provide a statistical opportunity to place our Solar System within the broader context of planetary structure, atmospheres, architectures, formation, and evolution.
The DSA-2000 Radio Camera: Revolutionizing Access to the Radio Sky
Abstract: The 2000-antenna Deep Synoptic Array (DSA-2000) will be a world- leading radio survey telescope and multi-messenger discovery engine operating in the 0.7-2 GHz band, with key surveys planned for 2028- 2033. The survey speed of the DSA-2000 will be unmatched among current or planned radio telescopes.