Finding white dwarfs, neutron stars, and black holes in binary star systems
Jessica Lu, Professor
Astronomy
Applications for Fall 2025 are closed for this project.
Model the radial velocities, orbits, and light curves of a sample of ASAS-SN ellipsoidal variable star systems.
Role: The undergraduate student will work with ground-based spectra from the SMARTS 1.5m telescope and photometry from ASAS-SN and TESS to characterize ellipsoidal variables which may host compact object companions. This will include deriving radial velocities, modeling the orbits and tidal distortion of the stars using existing software tools, and searching for spectral signatures of stellar companions.
Qualifications: - some experience with programming (python preferable, but not necessary)
- exposure to an intro astronomy course (major or non-major) is desirable but not essential
- astronomy, physics, CS, statistics, or data science majors (or intended majors) are encouraged to apply
Hours: 9-11 hrs
Mathematical and Physical Sciences