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students inside observatory with large telescope

The BSU Observatory is home to the BSU Experimental Astrophysics Research (BEAR) Team, and supports additional undergraduate research related to astronomy courses.

The BEAR Team, funded by the NASA MASGC (Massachusetts Space Grant Consortium), is a group of students dedicated to observational astronomy research. They collect data using the equipment in our main dome, follow an observing schedule, participate in data analysis and develop research projects. Their research so far includes photometry of exoplanets, exoplanet candidates, asteroids and variable stars, studying the width-luminosity relation for type Ia supernovae, and most recently searching for kuiper belt objects. Several students also dabble in astrophotography. Some physics courses also require students to do research independently of the team.  Some examples of recent student research posters are listed below.

Student Research

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Research in astronomy at BSU is not limited to imaging with our equipment. Other research projects have included statistical studies to determine how many stars in our galaxy have planets, determining stellar variability using the Planet Hunters database, identifying and studying areas of solar active regions, correlating solar flares with power outages on Earth, and more.

We have recently acquired a Baader Baches Echelle-Spectrograph, which we look forward to using for spectroscopy of variable stars and more!

telescope inside observatory
The BSU Observatory currently houses a 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain as its main research instrument in addition to more than a dozen other telescopes.
student looking into telescope
The BSU Observatory provides equipment and support for university courses in astronomy.