Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
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Azzan Porter

Baltimore,MD

Summary

As an astrophysics researcher and observation worker at the UMBC Observatory, I specialize in exploring celestial phenomena and collecting vital data to advance our understanding of the universe. Through diligent observation and analysis, I contribute to the forefront of astrophysical research, enhancing humanity's knowledge of the cosmos. My work involves tracking celestial bodies and investigating distant galaxies, all aimed at pushing the boundaries of astrophysics. With a passion for unraveling the mysteries of the universe, I am dedicated to contributing to the field through my role at UMBC Observatory.

Overview

1
1
year of professional experience

Work History

Cusp Ion Dispersion

NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
2023.10 - Current
  • In heliophysics, I research cusp ion dispersion, focusing on understanding the behavior of ions in Earth's magnetic cusp regions and their interactions with the magnetosphere.
  • My responsibilities include analyzing data, developing models, and contributing to scientific research to enhance our knowledge of space weather and its effects on Earth.
  • Presented research to URCAD and other conferences.
  • Research and conclusions were developed into publishing a paper.

UMBC Observatory Intern

UMBC Observatory
2022.12 - Current
  • Telescope Operation: Operating telescopes to capture images or collect data on celestial objects of interest. This includes setting up the telescope, aligning with the target, adjusting parameters, and monitoring the observing process.
  • Data Collection: Monitoring and recording observational data, ensuring the accuracy and quality of the acquired data. This may involve making adjustments to observation parameters based on real-time conditions.
  • Data Reduction: Processing and reducing observational data to remove noise, correct for instrumental effects, and prepare it for further analysis. This includes applying calibration techniques, performing image stacking, and extracting relevant information.
  • Instrument Maintenance: Conducting routine maintenance tasks on telescopes, detectors, and other observatory instruments. This involves cleaning optics, checking and replacing components, and performing calibrations to ensure optimal performance.

Astrophysics Researcher

UMBC Physics Department
2022.12 - 2023.05
  • Collecting astronomical images from telescopes, satellites, and observatories.
  • Utilizing software tools to process and enhance astronomical images.
  • Applying noise reduction techniques to improve image quality.
  • Employing deconvolution algorithms to sharpen and clarify astronomical images.
  • Enhancing contrast and adjusting color balance to reveal subtle details in images.
  • Developing and implementing innovative algorithms to extract information from images.
  • Analyzing the brightness, color, and spatial distribution of star clusters in images.
  • Applying statistical methods to quantify the properties of individual stars within star clusters.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Physics

University of Maryland - Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD
12.2025

Bachelor of Science - Mathematics

University of Maryland - Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD
12.2025

Skills

  • Image processing
  • Python
  • MATLAB
  • Physics
  • Mathematics
  • Instrumentation Knowledge
  • Astrophysical modeling
  • Scientific Writing
  • Optical astronomy

Accomplishments

  • Published paper on Cusp Ion Dispersions in the Magnetosphere.
  • Presented at URCAD.

Timeline

Cusp Ion Dispersion

NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
2023.10 - Current

UMBC Observatory Intern

UMBC Observatory
2022.12 - Current

Astrophysics Researcher

UMBC Physics Department
2022.12 - 2023.05

Bachelor of Science - Physics

University of Maryland - Baltimore County

Bachelor of Science - Mathematics

University of Maryland - Baltimore County
Azzan Porter