Student Project - Archival review of observations of Venus' atmosphere
ANU Area(s)
RSPE
Research Fields:
Astrophysics
Atomic and Molecular Physics
Environmental Physics
Project Details
The dominant chemical schemes in Venus' atmosphere are believed to have been identified but many significant aspects remain unknown and/or unverified. A key test of the community's current understanding is the molecular oxygen abundance, for which only upper limits have been published. One resource that has not been examined is the archive of past observations using the Fourier Transform Spectrometer on the McMath Pierce Solar Telescope, one of the few instruments capable of making these observations. This project will review the observational archive, identify relevant observations of Venus, examine the archived spectra for evidence of absorption by molecular oxygen, and determine the performance of the instrument for use in requesting future dedicated observing time.
Required Background
Second year courses in astronomy or earth science or physics and basic computer and Web skills.
Project Suitability
This research project can be tailored to suit students of the following type(s): 3rd Year, PhB, Honours, Vacation Scholars