The Pulsar Search Collaboratory
Rachel Rosen, Sue Ann Heatherly, Maura A. McLaughlin, Ryan Lynch, Vlad, I. Kondratiev, Jason R. Boyles, M. Terry Wilson, Duncan R. Lorimer, Scott, Ransom
TL;DR
The Pulsar Search Collaboratory is a program engaging high school students in authentic pulsar research using radio telescope data, leading to real astronomical discoveries and inspiring STEM careers.
Contribution
It introduces a novel educational program that combines student involvement with genuine scientific research in radio astronomy.
Findings
Two new pulsars discovered in the first year
Successful engagement of high school students in authentic research
Program demonstrates potential for STEM education and scientific contribution
Abstract
The Pulsar Search Collaboratory [PSC, NSF #0737641] is a joint project between the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) and West Virginia University (WVU) designed to interest high school students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics [STEM] related career paths by helping them to conduct authentic scientific research. The 3- year PSC program, which began in summer 2008, teaches students to analyze astronomical radio data acquired with the 100-m Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope for the purpose of discovering new pulsars. We present the results of the first complete year of the PSC, which includes two astronomical discoveries.
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