Pulsar Detection at Embry-Riddle

Pulsars are neutron stars that are rotating very rapidly about their rotational axis. They have a period of oscillation that can vary between a few milliseconds to a few seconds, with the majority of them having a period around 1 second. As the pulsar rotates, it emits electromagnetic radiation that can only be seen when the radio beam crosses over Earth, which creates a lighthouse effect. The pulsar of interest for this project is B0329+54, which is known as the loudest pulsar in the northern hemisphere, meaning that this pulsar emits the biggest signal in the northern hemisphere. By knowing its position in the sky, and by using a sensitive antenna, we can collect data regarding the intensity of the signal over time. Then, by using PRESTO, which is software designed to detect pulsars, the data can be searched for peaks, which correspond to the pulses. The end goal of this research project is to be the first person at Embry-Riddle to detect a pulsar. POSTER PRESENTATION IGNITE AWAR