PALS - Current

Speaker: Clayton Robertson, Univ. of Louisville

Abstract: The combination of extinction and scattering (i.e., attenuation) due to dust grains remain a critical uncertainty; for nearly all astronomical measurements, one needs to account for the dust in space. A technique to obtain extra-galactic spatially resolved attenuation measurements is to use partially overlapping -occulting- galaxy pairs: an astrophysical experiment in the optical properties of the interstellar medium that models the light of both galaxies and infers the missing light in the regions of overlap. In this talk, I present attenuation, reddening slope (RV) and color excess ratio (Eλ-V/EB-V) measurements mapped pixel-by-pixel from optical to near infrared wavelengths within the overlap of geometrically ideal occulting galaxy pair VV191. I will discuss what we learn about the dust properties of this galaxy pair and show that attenuation inferred from the Balmer decrement is twice that of the total average attenuation through the disk, decreasing with galactic radius.

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Speaker: Prof. C.M. Graney, Vatican Observatory

Abstract: What does it mean for Mercury to be in retrograde? What is a Sun sign, Moon sign, and Ascending? What are Earth, Air, Fire and Water? Are we all made of star stuff, and what does that mean for Astrology?

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Speaker: Kyle Cook, University of Louisville

Abstract: Galaxies are often described as a grouping of billions and billions of stars, however, it they can also be thought of as machines for turning gas into stars. Just as other machines, galaxies can turn on or turn off their star formation in processes that are currently being heavily researched. Green valley galaxies are a population that represent the transition between star forming or not and are also the topic of much research. In this talk we will discuss the basics of star formation in extragalactic astrophysics and discuss the exciting new missions and surveys that will provide the clearest and deepest views of our Universe ever seen. Answering the questions surrounding galactic star formation will provide answers about the processes that ultimately result in new stars, new planets, and (at least in one case) new life.

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Speaker:Matthew Nichols, University of Louisville

Abstract:Enjoy the solar system's greatest pyrotechnic show presented by the Sun! While the Sun generally provides a warm glow each day, occasionally it rudely belches out charged particles and radiation in the form of coronal mass ejections (cmes), flares, and prominences. Join us as we explore these phenomena, including what causes them, how to predict them, a historical perspective on recorded events, and how they may impact the habitability of planets.

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Speaker: Patrick Peak, Louisville Astronomical Society

Abstract: In many cases people are told that observing the night sky requires a dark site well away from the light pollution of modern cities and suburbs. This is far from the truth as there are hundreds of observations to be made from almost anywhere that a telescope or binoculars can be pointed upwards.  The Astronomical League has several observing programs that are well suited for light polluted locations. We will explore some of these programs and discover hundreds of things to observe from the light polluted backyard including the Moon, double stars, the Sun, Earth Orbiting Satellites and a host of objects in the night sky. You just need to know how, where and when to look!

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