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Research.
Along with routine observing labs, the Wheaton College Observatory currently supports several research projects. These projects provide our all-undergraduate community the opportunity to do real astronomical research using professional-level equipment. Student involvement is the keystone to all of the Observatory's research and they are involved in every aspect of the research including project creation, computer programming, setting up communication systems and, of course, observing. While most of the research is a collaboration between students and faculty, Thesis and Independent Study work are encouraged. Some current research includes:
Variable Star Research:
Using the new CCD imaging system, students are able to collect data from variable stars - stars that change their brightness over a period of time. Then using several imaging methods, they are able to produce light curves for their stars and determine the star's period.
Semi-Automated Supernova Search:
Several years of student work paid off in 1994 when Wheaton discovered it's first Supernova - SN1994U. (Cover story for "CCD Astronomy" - Sky Publishing - Fall 1994)
Near Earth Asteroids:
Soon to be up and running, this project will use the ST-8s to look for potentially dangerous objects orbiting near or on a collision course with Earth.
http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/archivepix.html - A new picture of the skies every day.
Content by Deb Banks
Last update 04/03 by Lori Agan