This past summer, Stefan Kautsch, Ph.D., assistant professor at the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences, gave invited seminars at the University of Cambridge in England and the University of Heidelberg in Germany, presenting research on the structures of spiral galaxies and their evolution. Most recently, on Sept. 13, Kautsch gave an invited colloquium presentation at the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne.
About the Research
Titled “The Largest Catalog of Edge-On Disk Galaxies and Their 3-D Structures,” Kautsch’s research presents a complete catalog of disk galaxies automatically selected from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, a primary tool used in mapping the universe. The sample includes 6,000 objects, making it the largest modern collection of true edge-on disk galaxies.
As Kautsch explains in his presentations, these galaxies are used to determine the structural parameters of the objects’ disks and bulges by using multi-dimensional component modeling. Kautsch’s investigation—together with his international collaboration—includes a report on the properties of thick disks, dust distribution, and halos.
Using Apps to Map Galaxies
Kautsch also serves as a faculty adviser for undergraduate biology major Chau Phung. Phung is developing a visual classification tool for galaxy morphology, which will allow NSU students to map galaxies using a specific Web page as well as mobile devices.
“This is a unique opportunity for our students to contribute to modern astronomical research,” said Kautsch. Phung and Kautsch are working alongside Michael Van Hilst, Ph.D., associate professor at the college. The interdisciplinary research project is supported by a 2013–2014 President’s Faculty Research & Development Grant.