Vol. 17, No. 35	July 9, 1998

Grad students named new Space Grant fellows

DuBois, who received a bachelor's degree in physics from the University of Florida, is involved in simulations of interacting bose systems to provide understanding of questions raised by Bose-Einstein condensation (BEC), such as the connection between the condensed state as observed in dilute vapors and that of the highly interacting liquid helium. BEC is of fundamental importance in superfluidity and superconductivity, as well as lasers and other phenomena, and the results of this work are expected to provide quantitative predictions that will aid in the design and interpretation of low-temperature experiments performed in NASA's microgravity facilities. His adviser is Henry R. Glyde, physics and astronomy.

With a bachelor's degree in physics and a master's degree in cosmic ray physics from the University of Calgary, de Koning is continuing work in cosmic ray physics with adviser John Bieber of the Bartol Research Institute. Cosmic rays can be used to study solar wind. By analyzing cosmic ray transport and interactions with the interplanetary magnetic field, his research will focus on the dynamics, properties and structure of the solar wind as it blows through interplanetary space. Using ground-based cosmic ray measurements is significantly less expensive than in-situ satellite measurements in forecasting space weather.

Landry received his bachelor's degree in engineering physics, with a concentration in electrical engineering, from the University of Maine. With adviser J. Qiang Xiao, physics and astronomy, he is working in the area of thin film magnetic tunnel junctions, which show promise for use in non-volatile and radiation hard computer memory, as well as magnetic field sensors. He also is working on a project to find new soft magnets with improved mechanical and magnetic properties capable of operating at high temperatures. These will improve motor and engine designs for electrical airplanes and vehicles.

Welp, a graduate of Pennsylvania State University with a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering with highest distinction, is working on the dynamics of polymeric molecules at interfaces between polymer materials. His adviser is Richard P. Wool, chemical engineering. Welp's research is focused on monitoring the behavior of specially labeled polymer chains at a polymer-polymer interface via dynamic secondary ion mass spectroscopy and neutron reflection. The dynamics of polymer chains at interfaces is critical to many applications, including the development of fracture strength and toughness during polymer welding and composite lamination, particle sintering and coatings, interfacial adhesion and friction and others. For example, the high-speed civil transport, a supersonic aircraft being developed by NASA/Boeing, depends on the performance of polymer-polymer interfaces.

DESGC was established in 1991 to administer NASA's National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program. It is a regional association of universities, colleges and organizations committed to a coordinated effort to enhance the future development of the U.S. in space science and technology.

The Bartol Research Institute at the University, as the lead institution, receives an annual NASA grant for programs supporting space research, education, outreach, student scholarships and fellowships and special initiative programs. NASA support is matched by contributions from members and affiliates.

Other consortium members include Delaware State, Lehigh, Lincoln and Villanova universities, Franklin and Marshall, Swarthmore, Gettysburg and Delaware Technical and Community colleges and the University of Pennsylvania.

Photo by Robert Cohen