Dr. Michelle Ouellette

Last modification : 2009/04/10 05:44
Contact me if you are interested: mouellet@calpoly.edu
Students interested in these projects should have some programming experience (or the willingness to learn).


VERITAS is a ground-based telescope array in Arizona used to observe gamma-rays hitting the Earth's atmosphere. These gamma-rays are emitted from objects such as pulsars and active galactic nuclei. Understanding the gamma-ray energy spectra allows us to understand the mechanisms creating this energetic radiation, such as black holes and strong magnetic fields.
  • Run simulations of gamma-ray-induced showers and detection of them.
  • Optical observations of active galactic nuclei. This project will require nighttime observation.
  • Opportunities for observing runs at VERITAS.


Variable stars are stars that vary in brightness over the course of hours to days. Because they follow a distance-luminosity relationship, they serve as excellent distance indicators to different parts of the Galaxy. They therefore allow us to study the structure and evolution of the Galaxy.
  • Measure the period of several RR-Lyrae type variable stars as follow-up observations to the Northern Sky Variability Survey (NSVS). This project will require nighttime observation.
  • Mine the NSVS for additional information: pick out other types of variable stars, search for eclipsing binaries, etc.


Compact objects, particularly neutron stars, are very active, emitting energy across the electromagnetic spectrum. Emission of X-rays from neutron stars can give important clues about their structure and their interaction with a binary companion. Two problems which I am currently interested in are:
  • Comparing numerical calculations of neutron star cooling with observation.
  • Studying the effect of accretion properties on neutron star heating and cooling.


Physics education
  • Determine whether written or online homework assignments better foster student learning.
  • Assess the usefulness of concept maps in a physics course.
  • Develop in-class activities for ASTR 101/102 classes.