Quantitative Astrophotography: Interpreting Astrophysics from Star-Formation Regions

Abstract

As undergraduates produce their own high-quality astrophotography images, STEM identity is shown to increase. Can more be obtained? Specifically, what student learning is possible about the physical processes occurring within these images? In this workshop, we focused on star-formation regions (stellar birth) as a model for quantification of astrophysical values. Narrowband, photometric observations from Skynet were processed in Afterglow Access, which included aligning, stacking, and coloring. Next, within the context of Strömgren sphere modelling, threshold boundaries were established for the electron number density. By securing an upper- and lower-bound on a common astrophysical quantity, undergraduates better understand how observation and theory work together for practicing scientists. In summary, this workshop reveals the capacity of astrophotography to deepen STEM identity and belonging within undergraduates by carrying out the same activities as scientists.