Stellar Impacts is my senior project centered around showing that finding internships that are related to your career goals was possible even in the middle of the pandemic shutdowns.
I worked with J.D. Armstrong from the Institute of Astronomy on Maui in order to gather images from telescopes around the world. These images would then be used to take measurements of Near-Earth Objects (NEOs). We would submit the measurements to the Minor Planet center to be published in circulars. I was able to get 3 circulars published with my name on them. I also received accolades from UH Maui in a press release. Links at the bottom of the page. |
An example of what the images from telescopes look like
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The process of collecting data starts with sending a request to a telescope of your choice. You include a desired time, and the coordinates of the object you are trying to get a picture of. If the previous measurements of an object are accurate, you can estimate where the object should show up. The more data gathered of an object the more accurate of a predicted pathway other scientists can make.
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This project really tested my communication and self-direction skills because the project was my responsibility to keep the momentum on. It was a great experience and showed me how you should communicate with someone who fills a role similar to employer. The information I learned about not only space but the process that goes with collecting data really gave me a new appreciation for something I already found fascinating.