Research
The path which has led me to the NMSU PhD program in astronomy is perhaps
unique, and a path less-traveled. I am a captain in the United States Air
Force, and for the last few years have been teaching physics, mathematics, and
astronomy at the Air Force Academy, in Colorado, and managing the associated
astronomical observatory. I have previously conducted research in the areas
of spacecraft component technology and adaptive optics, at the Starfire
Optical Range. A recent project on binary stars is focused on determining
orbital parameters for previously unclassified systems.
My long-term goals are to further contribute to the astronomy and
space-exploration community through both research and teaching efforts. I
strongly believe that we need to inspire the next generation of students to
care, and to pursue, science, just as the manned missions to the Moon inspired
a previous generation in the late 1960's.
I began my graduate studies in July 2007, working with Dr. Nancy Chanover
in the planetary research group. I'm looking at Saturn's atmosphere. I also have interests in asteroids and astronomy education.
My PhD work is supported by an Academic Fellowship from the United States Air
Force.
