Look and Learn
Ohio Wesleyan Students Use University's Perkins Observatory to Study Starspots
Name: Anushka Sharad '27
Hometown: Pune, Maharashtra, India
High school: Priyadarshani High School
Majors: Astrophysics and Mathematics with Honors
OWU Connection Experience: Summer Science Research Program
Sharad and students Mack Fincham '26 of Springfield, Ohio, and Julia Walsh '26 of Bethesda, Maryland, also Astrophysics and Mathematics majors, completed a 10-week research project titled "Investigating Starspots via Light-Curve Inversion." They were mentored by Robert Harmon, Ph.D., the Perkins-Howard Professor of Physics and Astronomy. Harmon teaches courses in theoretical physics as well as in theoretical and observational astrophysics.
Our Research
"We investigate starspots on distant stars using a technique called light-curve inversion.
"Starspots are regions on stars with intense magnetic activity, similar to sunspots on our Sun. By studying these starspots, we can better understand the magnetic behavior of stars, which affects their radiation and overall activity. This knowledge helps predict solar flares and other solar activities that impact space weather, astronauts, climate change, and even power grids on Earth. We achieve this by recording the intensity of the star's light over a long time, using telescopes and quantum scientific imaging cameras.
"As the star rotates, its brightness changes due to the large dark starspots moving in and out of view, allowing us to map the star's surface. We process our data with AstroImageJ software for image calibration and photometry." (Photometry is concerned with measuring light in terms of perceived brightness.)
One of the reasons I applied to OWU was to access the Perkins Observatory and learn more about telescopes, observational astronomy, and data collection. My project with Dr. Harmon provided exactly that.
Why This Experience?
"One of the reasons I applied to OWU was to access the Perkins Observatory and learn more about telescopes, observational astronomy, and data collection. My project with Dr. Harmon provided exactly that. …
"During the summer, Dr. Harmon exposed me to different computer systems and coding environments for astronomical data analysis, enriching my knowledge and preparing me for future opportunities. I believe that summer is the best time to spend with professors, learn from them, and expand my horizons for knowledge and experience."
My Favorite Moment
"My favorite experience was how, after every process, we discovered something new and profound, which aided our understanding of the topic we were working on. Additionally, I have always wanted to understand how astronomical data analysis works. During the summer, I got to experience this firsthand by working closely with Dr. Harmon, using the telescope and conducting research under the star-studded night sky."
Lessons Learned
"Many concepts I learned in my Physics & Astronomy classes were incredibly useful when Dr. Harmon went through the theoretical aspects of our research in the initial days. I realized that the extensive lab work and hands-on homework I did paid off well when applied to real-world projects.
"During our research, we learned coding on various platforms such as Emacs, IDL, and Shell Script. Working on an 8-core processor computer for astronomical data analysis significantly enhanced my skills in data visualization and experimentation. This experience has prepared me for presenting at conferences, as I now have a deeper understanding of the topics we explored. It has also helped me identify the areas I am passionate about for future research."
My Faculty Mentor
"Dr. Harmon is an outstanding professor, and I am proud to have him as my mentor. His guidance has been instrumental in my academic and career development. Through engaging classroom discussions and insightful office hours, I've solidified my understanding of complex concepts and explored career and research opportunities. Working closely with him has allowed me to grasp his approach to research, helping me identify projects I am passionate about. His detailed feedback and encouragement have been invaluable, making my experience truly enriching."
My Campus Involvements
"I am the vice president of the Robotics Club, secretary of the Society of Physics Students, and a member of the Astronomy Club."
Why I Chose Ohio Wesleyan?
"For my college choice, I sought a place where I could double major in Astrophysics and Math while engaging in early research opportunities. Learning about OWU, I knew it was the right fit. The presence of Perkins Observatory promised hands-on research and astronomical data analysis. Moreover, the chance to spend quality time with professors, discussing both class material and broader topics, enhances my holistic understanding of the subjects and enriches my academic experience. I can now see these aspirations becoming a reality at OWU."
My Plans After Graduation
"My plan after graduation is to attend grad school and deepen my understanding of Astrophysics. At OWU, I try to maximize every opportunity to gain diverse experiences, ensuring I'm well-prepared. I've benefited from my professors' expertise, attended numerous events, and enjoyed the full academic experience.
"During my first year, I participated in an American Physical Society conference, career fairs, and Physics and Astronomy Department events, which enhanced my career preparedness. I've also engaged in activities like science outreach, working in the physics shop, and attending informal physics meetings."