CAREER: Solar Variability in the Classroom and in Research

Yale University, New Haven CT

Investigators

Abstract

This project aims to improve our understanding of solar variability and to introduce the field to students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. The PI will study mechanisms that give rise to the solar cycle and their influence on solar structure and dynamics, using a combination of modeling and helioseismic analysis. Particular attention will be paid to helioseismic study of the outer layers of the Sun, where all observable solar-cycle related changes are known to occur. The PI will involve students in this study with the aim of exposing them to unsolved problems in solar physics. Students will be introduced to solar physics in general, and solar variability and its effects in particular. This will be done through providing a combination of classroom teaching and research experiences in various topics related to solar physics. In addition, the PI will collaborate with Yale New Haven Teachers Institute to assist K-12 teachers in developing public school curricula about the Sun and its influence on earth.