Project Description: Earth's upper atmosphere emits airglow in the far-ultraviolet (FUV) range, significantly impacting astronomical observations from low-Earth orbit. This project investigates how FUV airglow intensity varies with spacecraft geometry and solar illumination, using archival data from NASA's Far Ultraviolet Spectroscopic Explorer (FUSE). Understanding these variations is crucial for detecting faint astrophysical signals and minimizing background noise in future space missions. The intern will analyze archival space telescope data with step-by-step guidance from a mentor. While previous experience in astronomical data analysis is not required, familiarity with Python programming would be beneficial. Results from this research will directly inform current missions like Aspera and support the planning of future UV missions. The project aims to publish the findings in a peer-reviewed astronomical journal by the end of the internship.
NASA Relevance: UV Airglow line study is essential for observations of diffuse circumgalactic emission, a key component in advancing our knowledge of galaxy evolution - one of NASA's Cosmic Origins Program's research subjects.
Work Description:
- Navigate and utilize archival data from NASA's FUSE mission
- Conduct analysis of UV spectroscopic data
- Process and interpret spacecraft attitude information
- Develop a web-based interactive tool for estimating airglow line intensity distributions
Open or Reserved Project: Open, 1 position