Undergraduate research topic help?

[C0smiicV0r3ex]

Hello everyone,
I'm trying to start a new undergraduate research project.
I have about 2 years to finish it, but honestly, I'm unsure as to what to do.
Everything I really want to do is theoretical, but I need to design an experiment off of it, which would be tough.
I was wondering if any of you have any idea as to what I could do relating to:

• Exoplanets
• Stellar atmospheres
• Astro-engineering concepts
• Dark matter/dark energy
• Space/Time ripples around a black hole
• Any other astrophysics/astrobiology topic

I'm not quite sure what kinda of experiments I could do, especially at my level.
If any of you could give me some ideas, that would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!

 

[Drakkith]

You can do some exoplanet transits with amateur equipment. Perhaps a long term study of a known exoplanet that transits to see if the timing of the transits changes? This would suggest something, perhaps another planet, altering it's orbit.

 

[Bobbywhy]

I suggest you check out the possibility to do some real research using the CubeSat program. Look especially at the “Applications” section for opportunities.

“A CubeSat is a type of miniaturized satellite for space research that usually has a volume of exactly one liter (10 cm cube), has a mass of no more than 1.33 kilograms,[1] and typically uses commercial off-the-shelf electronics components. Beginning in 1999, California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) and Stanford University developed the CubeSat specifications to help universities worldwide to perform space science and exploration.”

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CubeSat

 

[Nabeshin]

Hello everyone,
I'm trying to start a new undergraduate research project.
I have about 2 years to finish it, but honestly, I'm unsure as to what to do.
Everything I really want to do is theoretical, but I need to design an experiment off of it, which would be tough.
I was wondering if any of you have any idea as to what I could do relating to:

• Exoplanets
• Stellar atmospheres
• Astro-engineering concepts
• Dark matter/dark energy
• Space/Time ripples around a black hole
• Any other astrophysics/astrobiology topic

I'm not quite sure what kinda of experiments I could do, especially at my level.
If any of you could give me some ideas, that would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!

So, as an undergraduate I'm assuming you're not doing this in isolation? Why don't you go talk to the astrophysics professors at your university and see what they're up to.

 

[pmacias]

I can provide some guidance and suggestions for your undergraduate research project. First of all, it's great that you are interested in theoretical topics, as they can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in the field of astrophysics. However, as you mentioned, it can be challenging to design experiments for theoretical concepts.

One suggestion would be to focus on exoplanets, as it is a rapidly growing field with plenty of opportunities for research. You could design experiments to study the atmospheres of exoplanets and their potential habitability. This could involve collecting data from telescopes and analyzing it to determine the composition and conditions of these planets.

Another idea could be to explore astro-engineering concepts, such as the potential for building habitable structures on other planets or creating sustainable living environments in space. This could involve designing and testing prototypes or simulations to demonstrate the feasibility of these concepts.

For a more theoretical approach, you could delve into the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy. This could involve designing experiments to detect or measure these elusive substances, or exploring their potential effects on the universe and its evolution.

Lastly, you could also consider studying the space-time ripples around black holes, which is a fascinating and complex topic. This could involve analyzing data from gravitational wave detectors or using simulations to study the behavior of matter and energy in the extreme conditions near a black hole.

Overall, there are many exciting possibilities for undergraduate research in astrophysics and astrobiology. I would suggest discussing your ideas and interests with your professors and seeking their guidance in developing a research project that aligns with your goals and capabilities. Best of luck in your research journey!