Experimental Astrophysics in Undergraduate Physics Using Digital Detector Technology

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This project introduces experimental astrophysics to the undergraduate physics curriculum via the mini-project-based advanced physics laboratory, through upperclass independent study/research projects, and to a lesser degree, the introductory astronomy courses. These goals are achieved by the replacement of the current educational grade 10" telescope with a 16" research grade instrument, and the associated acquisition of a CCD camera system for digital imaging analysis. A computer workstation is included for using existing sophisticated UNIX-based imaging software. The equipment effectively complements the existing observatory facility and instrumentation available, and the projected experimentation made possible with it significantly contribute to the current student research capabilities of the department.