Research:Joseph Weingartner


Joseph Weingartner does theoretical astrophysics, with a focus on cosmic dust (i.e., sub-micron grains of solid material). Dust is nearly ubiquitous in the universe and plays critical roles in many astrophysical processes, including galaxy evolution and star and planet formation. Dr. Weingartner models the interactions between grains and their environment (including starlight, gas, and magnetic fields). Applications include the alignment of non-spherical grains with the interstellar magnetic field. Aligned grains polarize starlight and emit polarized thermal radiation; observations of this radiation can be used to learn about the geometry of the field. Dr. Weingartner supports undergraduate and graduate research students.

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