Branyon May

Active Galaxies

Sources detected in the field of a Chandra observation.

Currently, my primary project is an analysis of long exposure X-ray fields, searching for serendipitous background Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN). This is a multiwavelength study correlating the target fields in the X-ray, infrared, and optical. I am making use of data from two of NASA's orbiting space telescope facilities: the Chandra X-ray Observatory and the Spitzer Space Telescope (an infrared satellite). The optical data (yet to be obtained) will be collected from various ground-based observatories.

For this project, I am collaborating with Dr. Douglas Swartz, an astrophysicist at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and the National Space Science and Technology Center (NSSTC), both located in Huntsville, Alabama. As well as, under the oversight of my advisor, Professor Bill Keel, at the University of Alabama.

Extrasolar Planets

Artistic example of a transiting orientation.
Image created with Celestia

Although the Astronomy department at the University of Alabama does not necessarily have any specific research in this area, I have found the study of extrasolar planets to be intriguing, with their dynamical systems, atmospheres, and potential satellite/ring systems. For my undergraduate senior research project, I studied the extrasolar planetary system HD209458, which at that time was one of only 2 known "transiting" systems. My project was a sort of feasibility test. Yes, it had been studied by numerous groups, but I sought to test its accessibility to small university equipment.

We gathered our data using a commercial-class, portable 10" Meade LX200 equipped with a photoelectric photometer from the grounds of Angelo State University. With this very modest equipment, we were successful in observing the on-transit and off-transit periods. This research was funded by the Carr Research Scholarship at Angelo State University.

Supernova Analysis

M100 with SN 2006X

On February 7, 2006, a supernova (2006X) was observed in the galaxy Messier 100, a member of the Virgo cluster. On the evening of February 9th, I was able to image this supernova, which was discovered well before its peak brightness. This first observation initiated what became a class project for my graduate Observational Techniques (AY533) course. Over the next several months, I took part in a monitoring regiment to track this type-Ia supernova event through its decline.