Current research focuses on determining the location of dark matter in the Milky Way. We perform n-body simulations of the tidal disruption of dwarf galaxies in the Milky Way halo, using MilkyWay@home, a 0.5 PetaFLOPS volunteer computing platform built in-house. We compare the simulations to actual Milky Way data to determine the best parameters for the simulations, thus constraining the amount and distribution of dark matter in the halo.
Submitted by littec2 on
Submitted by littec2 on
The Department of Physics, Applied Physics, and Astronomy prepares students to contribute to new concepts and technologies through innovative teaching methods that combine student-faculty interactions, computer-based education, and “hands-on” experience in modern laboratories.
A master's degree is becoming increasingly valuable. A master’s degree in physics enables students to round out their educations before embarking on their professional career. Accelerated master's degree programs save the cost and study time of graduate admission tests, application fees, and extra courses.
Astronomy and related fields are at the forefront of science and technology; answering fundamental questions and driving innovation. The study of astronomy contributes to technology, economy and society by constantly pushing for instruments, processes and software that are beyond our current capabilities.
The physics department has a vigorous graduate program with approximately 60 students working toward M.S. and Ph.D. degrees. Graduate students develop flexible individual programs of study and research in one or more of the available research areas.
