John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences

News and information from the UND John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences.

Thesis Defense by Justin Germann on April 8th

Space Studies M.S. candidate Justin Germann, will defend his thesis on  Thursday, April 8th at 1:00 pm Central DST.

Research Title: “VNIR Spectral Properties of Five G-class Asteroids: Implications for Mineralogy and Geologic Evolution.”

Research Description: G-class asteroids are a relatively small group of ~30 asteroids. Ceres is the most prominent member as well as the most studied member of the G-class. This has led many to assume that Ceres is representative of the G-class asteroids. However, recent observations have shown desperate absorption features in the visible to near infrared spectra (0.4-2.5 µm) of G-class asteroids. The presented research will discuss the spectral properties identified in five studied G-class asteroids. As well as the relationship between the identified spectral features and aqueously altered surface minerals.

Bio: Justin Germann is pursuing a M.S. in Space Studies focusing in Planetary Science and holds a B.S. of Geology also from the University of North Dakota. As an undergraduate Justin classified the Colgate Meteorite as a senior research project. He currently works as a Graduate Research assistant under Dr. Fieber-Beyer and Dr. Gaffey where he conducts observations of asteroids with the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility, reduces telescope data, and assists with observation planning. Upon completion of his M.S. in Space Studies Justin hopes to continue his education in a Ph.D. program studying Planetary Geology, where he can conduct research on the link between asteroids, meteorites, and the formation of the solar system.

Advisor: Dr. Fieber-Beyer

Committee: Dr. Fieber-Beyer, Dr. Gaffey, Dr. Barkhouse