Presentation
The Practicality of a Seemingly Simple Project to Learn the Secrets of the Universe. Or How Physics is Like Making a Cake.
Humboldt State University
(2014)
Abstract
The budding astrophysicist is faced with a daunting task. How does one develop skills to probe the depths of the Universe? Many tools, observational and theoretical, are available if one is prepared to invest the time and effort needed to understand how these tools work and how to put them into practice. A pragmatic, seemingly simple approach frequently provides significant opportunities to learn such skills.
An example of this principle is the construction of an instrument capable of observing our Sun. This seminar presentation is based on the construction of a functioning radio telescope designed to observe Solar radiation in the microwave regime, ~4GHz. The seminar will include an overall discussion of Solar emissions as well as characteristics of the Solar Atmosphere. Design of the radio telescope, especially the feed system, will be a key focus of the presentation. Data obtained using the telescope will also figure prominently in the discussion.
Though there will some elements of mathematical rigor, this presentation is suitable for all audiences.
Keywords
- Radio telescope,
- Bessel Function,
- astrophysics,
- cake
Disciplines
Publication Date
April, 2014
Location
Arcata, CA
Comments
This presentation was my senior project.
Citation Information
David Alan Smith. "The Practicality of a Seemingly Simple Project to Learn the Secrets of the Universe. Or How Physics is Like Making a Cake." Humboldt State University (2014) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/david-smith/6/
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons CC_BY International License.