Evolution and death of stars. White dwarfs, novae, planetary nebulae, supernovae, neutron stars, pulsars, binary stars, x-ray stars, and black holes. Big bang cosmology, including cosmic expansion, the origin of matter and the elements, inflation, and creation of structure in the universe. Observational evidence for dark matter. Models for the fate of the universe.
Emphasis is on physical processes in the early universe.
While not all projects require three quarters, the sequence below suggests the format most projects are expected to follow. Projects may commerce in any quarter. 169A. Selection of the Problem Selection of the problem to be studied and development of the theoretical apparatus or initial interpretation of the selected problem. Preparation of a detailed description of the problem and its background and a comprehensive discussion of the work planned in the subsequent two quarters. 169B. Continuation of Project Substantial completion of the required computations or data analysis for the research project selected.