Overview

As an REU (Research Experiences for Undergraduates) summer research assistant in Penn State’s Electrical Engineering Department, I researched techniques for identifying micrometeors in radar telescope data. The project focused on analyzing signal patterns from over 10,000 meteor radar echoes to identify evidence supporting theorized micrometeor fragmentation phenomena.

Key Contributions

• Analyzed large-scale radar data returns from over 10,000 meteor echoes, applying skills in data processing and pattern recognition
• Identified specific radar signal interference patterns that supported the existence of micrometeor fragmentation phenomena
• Developed MATLAB numerical simulations of meteor fragmentation, radio science, and wave interference that supported potential sources of the observed signal interference patterns
• Co-authored a publication in Geophysical Research Letters based on the findings
• Presented research methodology and results to the NSF REU program and department faculty

Technologies & Methods

• MATLAB for signal processing and data visualization
• Statistical analysis of large datasets
• Radio science modeling and simulation
• Scientific data visualization
• Radar signal processing techniques

Publications

1. Cross, J. and Mathews, J. (2009). “Classification and Radio Science Modeling of Radar Meteor Echoes.” NSF EE REU PENN STATE Annual Research Journal, Volume VII.

2. Mathews, J., Briczinski, S., Malhotra, A., and Cross, J. (2010). “Extensive meteoroid fragmentation in V/UHF radar meteor observations at Arecibo Observatory.” Geophysical Research Letters, Volume 37.