Columbus State University Receives NASA Funding for Student Research Opportunities

Columbus State University has been awarded a $300,000 grant from NASA aimed at bolstering undergraduate research initiatives within its Coca-Cola Space Science Center. The funding will specifically enhance operations at the center’s WestRock Observatory and facilitate student involvement in two advanced astronomical investigations over a two-year period.

One of these projects involves studying blazars – supermassive black holes that emit powerful energy jets – under the direction of Dr. John Hood, an alumnus of Carver High School and researcher at the University of Chicago. Dr. Hood will collaborate with current CSU students as part of this endeavor. The grant is anticipated to cultivate future accomplished alumni, building on a track record where seven former CSU students currently hold positions at the Marshall Space Flight Center and other space exploration organizations across the nation.

“With these expanded capabilities,” stated Dr. Shawn Cruzen, executive director of the Coca-Cola Space Science Center, “we’re creating enhanced opportunities for our students to develop their research skills and secure rewarding careers in a rapidly expanding sector.”

A second project, spearheaded by Professor Andrew Puckett, will focus on tracking potentially hazardous asteroids. Student contributions leading to refined orbital calculations may result in co-authorship credits in peer-reviewed scientific publications, contributing directly to planetary defense efforts.

The improvements are slated for completion by spring and are designed to be integrated with the telescope when the Coca-Cola Space Science Center transitions to Columbus State University’s main campus.