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Artificial Intelligence in Science
Dr. Victor Pankratius, Principal Research Scientist, MIT Kavli Institute
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Jan/29 | Tue | 01:00PM-01:30PM | Marlar Lounge 37-252 |
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
How can Artificial Intelligence help advance science? This presentation will outline new avenues for Computer-Aided Discovery in astronomy and geoscience.
Please note: this talk will be followed by two other talks and a lab tour!
Roman warships in Experiment: Reconstruction and Sailing Tests (1:30-2:30pm)
The Future of X-ray Polarimetry in Astronomy (2:30-3:30pm)
Tour of MIT's X-ray Polarimetry Lab, where new X-ray instrumentation is currently being developed
Please Note:
20 people max for tour. Advance sign-up required starting at 2:25pm in 37-252 immediately before Dr. Marshall's talk. Attendance of talk is required for tour of the Lab. Tour will leave from 37-252 at 3:30pm. Tour attendees will walk as a group to NE83.
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
Black Holes: From Rejection, to Experimental Evidence, to Suprises and Misconceptions
Bruno Coppi, Professor of Physics
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Jan/30 | Wed | 03:00PM-04:00PM | 26-414 |
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
Prereq: None
The difficult path of the Black Hole concept -- from Princeton where it blossomed originally, to (our) Cambridge -- is reviewed and re-lived. A series of surprises and misconceptions concerning astrophysical objects identified as Black Holes is illustrated, together with the mysteries that remain to be faced.
Sponsor(s): Lab for Nuclear Science
Contact: Bruno Coppi, 26-547, 617-253-2507, coppi@mit.edu
Deflategate, the Decline and Fall of Western Civilization, and You
Dr. John F. Carrier, MIT Sloan School, System Dynamics Group
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Jan/18 | Fri | 03:30PM-05:00PM | 66 -112 (to Confirm) |
Enrollment: Limited: Advance sign-up required
Limited to 16 participants
Prereq: miminal familiarity with the Ideal Gas Law
On January 18, 2019, we will be recognizing the fourth anniversary of the Deflategate controversy with a working group session.
We will be analyzing the Deflategate episode through the lens of a socio-technological industrial accident, using the STAMP methodology developed here at MIT:
http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/92371
Dr. Carrier has several decades of experience studying industrian accidents through a control systems perspective (he led the first meeting between BP and Transocean following the Deepwater Horizon incident. He spent several hundred hours researching Deflategate, even assembling his own "Deflategate Investigation Kit".
The outcome of the session is to prepare and submit a presentation to be delivered at the 2019 STAMP Workshop to be held at MIT Mar 26-29, 2019.
http://psas.scripts.mit.edu/home/stamp-workshops/
You can find more information on Dr. Carrier's work on Deflategate here:
For more information on STAMP/STPA, please refer to the following handbook:
http://psas.scripts.mit.edu/home/get_file.php?name=STPA_handbook.pdf
Sponsor(s): Chemical Engineering, Institute for Data, Systems and Society (IDSS), Sloan School of Management
Contact: John Carrier, TBD, 617-939-4396, JFCARRIE@MIT.EDU
Exoplanet Science in the Era of TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite)
Dr. Jenn Burt, Torres Postdoctoral Fellow
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Jan/28 | Mon | 03:30PM-04:00PM | Marlar Lounge 37-252 |
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
Prereq: none
Abstract:
The beginning of the TESS spacecraft’s science mission in mid 2018 promises the detection of thousands of exoplanets orbiting bright, nearby stars. These planets will provide astronomers with our best ever opportunity to mount extensive follow up observation efforts and try to understand the composition, distribution and evolution of planets in our galaxy. This talk will describe the anticipated TESS planet yield, its impact on the exoplanet field, and some of the follow up methods that astronomers will use to probe the composition of the planets’ rocky cores and/or gaseous outer atmospheres.
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
Exploring the Universe from Near to Far with the Chandra X-ray Observatory; Tour of the Chandra Operations Control Center
Dr. Norbert Schulz
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Jan/31 | Thu | 02:00PM-04:00PM | Marlar Lounge 37-252, driver's license/passport needed for tour |
Enrollment: Limited: Advance sign-up required
Sign-up by 01/28
Limited to 20 participants
Prereq: attend 2:00pm talk to take Chandra OCC tour that follows
Exploring the Universe from Near to Far with the Chandra X-ray Observatory
In the summer of 1999, NASA launched the third of its great observatories--the Chandra X-ray telescope. Like the Hubble Space telescope which preceded it, Chandra is designed to have an unprecedented ability to create images and spectra of astrophysical objects, except working with high energy X-rays instead of optical light. This means that Chandra views some of the universe's most exotic and energetic phenomena: supernovae, neutron stars, black holes, jets traveling at nearly the speed of light emanating from near the center of clusters of galaxies. In this talk, we'll take a tour of the discoveries made by the Chandra X-ray telescope, starting with studies of our own solar system, moving outward to nearby stars, to the center of our own Galaxy where a black hole 40 millions times the mass of our Sun lurks, to distant clusters of Galaxies where the most massive black holes, billions of times the mass of our Sun, reside.
Tour of Operations Control Center for Chandra X-ray Observatory
Tour signup deadline: Mon, Jan 28 @ 12noon. Email meinbres@mit.edu your first & last name (as it appears on your ID) & country of your citizenship. Tour attendance will be confirmed by end of day Jan 29.
Tour departs 37-252 shortly after 2:30pm. Walk as a group to NE83.
The tour is limited to the first 20 people who sign up by Jan 28 @ noon. No enrollment limit for talks preceding tour.
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
Film: Humanity Needs Dreamers: A Visit with Marie Curie
Susan Rosevear, Education Officer
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Jan/30 | Wed | 03:00PM-05:00PM | Room 66-110 |
Enrollment: Limited: Advance sign-up required
Sign-up by 01/25
Limited to 100 participants
Marie Curie is well known for her pioneering work in the field of radioactivity and for being the first woman to win a Nobel Prize. Her journey from her early years in Poland to her research in Paris included fascinating challenges, struggles, failures, and triumphs. Join us for a science immersion film portraying Mme. Curie's amazing life. This award-winning one-woman presentation brings the two-time Nobel Prize winner alive on film as she relays her story.
Susan Marie Frontczak, an engineer and liviing history scholar, wrote and performs "Humanity Needs Dreamers: A Visit with Marie Curie." She will participate in a short discussion and Q&A following the presentation led by filmmaker Jen Myronuk.
Light refreshments will be served.
Sponsor(s): Materials Research Laboratory
Contact: Susan Rosevear, 13-2050, 617 253-0916, SUSANG@MIT.EDU
Fundamentals of Manual Machining in the Physics Student Shop
Kay Lowden, Technical Instructor
Enrollment: Limited: Advance sign-up required
Sign-up by 01/12
Limited to 5 participants
Attendance: Participants welcome at individual sessions
This course will teach the basic components of safe and effective manual machine tool operation. Qe will cover machine-specific hazards, workpiece fixturing, cutting tool selection, and variety of metal cutting operations. Students will have the opportunity to practice machining operations on tools in the Physics student machine shop.
Students who complete this course will be able to:
Intentify and operate machine EX-stop, start and brake, as well as speed controls and tool motion controls.
Describe hazards associated with a use of a given tool, both to the operator and potentially to other shop users.
Explain the function of machine guarda and of required personal protective equipment.
Fixture a piece of stock for machining in a way that allows for the desired cut and minimizes vibration or damage to the cutting tool.
Select a tool and cutting speed for a given cut, and justify the selection based on the material and type of cut.
Set up a workpiece and perform basic cutting operations without incident.
Enrollment conditions: Sessions limited to 5 students. Participants must be MIT-Physics affialiated (course 8 undergrad, or grad/postdoc/staff/faculty involved with physics-associated DLcs) and must have completed a 1 hours physics shop orientation. For new shop users, orientation will be offered a few times a week during IAPand by appt. Appropriate shop attire is required for all participants: close-toed shoes.
Sponsor(s): Physics
Contact: Kay Lowden, 4-361, 617-253-4819, jklowden@mit.edu
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Jan/14 | Mon | 01:00PM-03:00PM | 6-214, For new shop users, orientations will be offered |
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Jan/16 | Wed | 01:00PM-03:00PM | 6-214, For new shop users, orientations will be offered |
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Jan/28 | Mon | 01:00PM-03:00PM | 6-214, For new shop users, orientations will be offered |
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Jan/30 | Wed | 01:00PM-03:00PM | 6-214, For new shop users, orientations will be offered |
Brandsaw and Drill Press
Kay Lowden - Technical Instructor
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Jan/14 | Mon | 03:30PM-05:30PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
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Jan/16 | Wed | 03:30PM-05:30PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
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Jan/28 | Mon | 03:30PM-05:30PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
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Jan/30 | Wed | 03:30PM-05:30PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
Session I: Jan 14th and 28th
Session ii: Jan. 16th and 30th
Kay Lowden - Technical Instructor
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Jan/15 | Tue | 02:00PM-04:00PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
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Jan/17 | Thu | 02:00PM-04:00PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
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Jan/29 | Tue | 02:00PM-04:00PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
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Jan/31 | Thu | 02:00PM-04:00PM | 6-214, Appropriate shop attire is required for all partic |
Session I: Jan. 15th and 29th
Session II: Jan 17th and 31st
Kay Lowden - Technical Instructor
Heavier than the Sun, Smaller than a City: The Neutron Star
Dr. Paul Hemphill, Postdoctoral Associate
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Jan/31 | Thu | 01:30PM-02:00PM | Marlar Lounge 37-252 |
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
Prereq: none
Heavier than the Sun, Smaller than a City: The Neutron Star
Abstract:
Neutron stars are some of the most extreme objects in the known Universe. More massive than the Sun, but just a few miles across, they have some of the highest densities, strongest magnetic fields, and highest temperatures of any celestial objects. In this talk I will give an overview of the origins and properties of the various types of neutron stars that we observe, as well as how we can detect them and their usefulness for astrophysics as a whole.
Please note: after Dr. Hemphill's talk, there will be a talk about the Chandra X-ray Observatory led by Dr. Norbert Schulz. Following Dr. Schulz' talk, there will be a tour of the Chandra X-ray Observatory Operations Control Center. IMPORTANT--if you are interested in taking that tour, you must sign up by Jan 25. See the separate IAP listing for the Chandra talk and tour for complete details including the tour requirements and limits: Exploring the Universe from Near to Far with the Chandra X-ray Observatory
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
How Stars are Born
Dr. Hans Moritz Guenther, Research Scientist
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Jan/28 | Mon | 02:30PM-03:00PM | Marlar Lounge 37-252 |
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
Prereq: none
While our Sun is almost 5 billion years old, stars still form in the the dark clouds of our Milky Way. When we observe those regions we can learn how star and planet formation works, so that we also understand the formation of our own solar system and the Earth better. I will describe how we observe those regions that are hidden to the naked eye using infrared and X-ray telescopes to obtain stunning images of stellar nurseries. Zooming in on just a few of the young stars, I show how a gas cloud collapses to form a hot gas core that is the birth place of another sun and possibly a few planets. This is the stage of star formation where I concentrate my own research and I will describe how professional astronomers gain access to space telescopes, share my experiences of how to use the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) for my observations of young stars and I will show an example of how we process the observations to extract scientific conclusions. Star formation is a very active area of research with many open questions to solve and certainly one of the areas in astronomy that delivers extremely beautiful images of the Milky Way that surrounds us.
No enrollment limit for talk, no advance sign-up required.
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
How to program a quantum computer
Jacques Carolan, Postdoctoral Fellow
Enrollment: Limited: Advance sign-up required
Attendance: Participants welcome at individual sessions
Ever wanted to progam a real life quantum computer? Now here's your chance!
Storing information on individual quantum systems enables applications that are inherently more powerful than their classical counterparts. Quantum key distribution now makes it possible to transmit information with unconditional security; quantum simulation is beginning to address problems that are intractable on classical computers; and quantum metrology techniques push the boundaries of precision measurements.
This course explores fundamental concepts in quantum computing through a series of hands-on tutorials, where participants interactively learn by programming a quantum simulator. We introduce state-of-the-art quantum algorithms, leading approaches to quantum hardware and an overview of error mechanisms alongside techniques for error correction. The course culminates in a group project where participants can run their own quantum algorithm on an actual quantum computer!
The course is open to everyone and no prior experience in quantum information will be assumed. Familiarity with linear algebra will be required and programming experience is a bonus.
Course size is limited. To sign up please send a short email to carolanj@mit.edu with a breif description of your familiarity with quantum (if any).
Contact: Jacques Carolan, carolanj@mit.edu
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Jan/14 | Mon | 10:00AM-12:00PM | 34-303, Bring your laptop |
In this class we explore the fundamentals of quantum computing through a series of hands-on tutorials which program a quantum simulator.
Jacques Carolan - Postdoctoral Fellow, Dirk Englund - Professor of EECS
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Jan/16 | Wed | 10:00AM-12:00PM | 34-303, Bring your laptop |
In this class we explore leading hardware approaches towards building a quantum computer.
Dirk Englund - Professor of EECS, Jacques Carolan - Postdoctoral Fellow
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Jan/18 | Fri | 10:00AM-12:00PM | 34-303, Bring your laptop |
In this class we work on a project to develop and run our own quantum algorithm on a real life quantum computer!
Dirk Englund - Professor of EECS, Jacques Carolan - Postdoctoral Fellow
IAP 2019 Physics Lecture Series
Professor Nergis Mavalvala, Associate Head of Physics
Enrollment: Limited: First come, first served (no advance sign-up)
Attendance: Participants welcome at individual sessions
Physics Lecture Series IAP 2019
Sponsor(s): Physics
Contact: Denise Wahkor, 4-315, 617 253-4855, DENISEW@MIT.EDU
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Jan/07 | Mon | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120, , |
Title: What's Happening at the World's Largest Atom Smasher
The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) successfully completed its second running period (Run 2) that began in 2015. A good time to take stock. What have we learned so far? What will the future bring? The talk will focus on the physics of the Higgs boson and the opportunities ahead.
Markus Klute - Professor of Physics
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Jan/09 | Wed | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Superconducting circuits are one of the most promising platforms for quantum computation. We discuss potential applications and challenges which must be overcome.
Kevin O'Brien - Professor, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science
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Jan/11 | Fri | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
The recent AI revolution presents a number of exciting opportunities for physicistsboth to help us with physics research, but also for physicists to help further advances in AI.
Marin Soljacic - Professor of Physics
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Jan/14 | Mon | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Title: Gravitational Wave Science in the Era of of First Discoveries
The detection of gravitational waves from black holes and neutron stars has started a new era in astronomy and astrophysics. In her talk, Dr. Barsotti will review recent discoveries and how they are helping us to address some of the big open questions in physics:
Dr. Lisa Barsotti - Principal Research Scientist
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Jan/16 | Wed | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Title: Quantum Field Theory (QFT) approach to materials with large defects.
Abstract: QFT plays a central role high-energy-physics and condensed-matter-physics. Here we introduce why QFT can also naturally describe defective materials, using dislocation as an example.
Mingda Li - Professor, Nuclear Science and Engineering
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Jan/18 | Fri | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Title: Quantum Jitters in the Sky: Cosmic Inflation and the Latest Observations
Abstract: This talk will introduce the theory of cosmic inflation, various observational tests, and open questions in our understanding of the earliest moments in cosmic history.
David Kaiser - Germenhausen Prof., STS, and Professor, Physics
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Jan/22 | Tue | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Electron Hydrodynamics in Graphene: Introduction and Status
Over the years, graphene has enabled the observation of many ground-breaking phenomena. In this talk, we will discuss recent advances in the physics of the two-dimensional world.
Dr.Denis Bandurin - Postdoctoral Fellow
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Jan/23 | Wed | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Particles, Programs, and Machines That Have Ideas: Applying Statistical Physics to Build the Next Generation of Machine Learning Technology in an MIT Startup Company
Ben Vigoda - Physics Alum
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Jan/25 | Fri | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Dirac Equation, Topological Material and Quantum Technology
The discovery of Dirac equation nearly a century ago laid the foundation of quantum theory of elementary particles. The lecture will try to convey the beauty of Dirac equation and its powerful applications in the physical world.
Liang Fu - Professor of Physics
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Jan/28 | Mon | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Condensed Matter Dynamics: Measurement and Control
Ultrashort light pulses from far-infrared to visible to x-ray spectral ranges have enabled dramatic advances in observation and control of material structure and properties.
Keith Nelson - Professor of Chemistry
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Jan/30 | Wed | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
We will discuss how ideas from topology has drastically changed our understanding of the nine-decade-old theory of electronic band structures.
Hoi Chun Po - Postdoctoral Fellow
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Feb/01 | Fri | 01:30PM-02:30PM | 6-120 |
Title: Voyager 2 in the Interstellar Medium, Finally!
Abstract: Voyager 2 crossed into the interstellar medium (ISM) in November 2018. I discuss current conditions in the ISM as measured on Voyager 2.
John Belcher - Professor of Physics
IAP 2019- The Feynman Films
Andy Neely, Manager of the Technical Services Group
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
Attendance: Participants welcome at individual sessions
IAP 2019 The Feynman Films
Sponsor(s): Physics
Contact: Denise Wahkor, 4-315, 617 253-4855, DENISEW@MIT.EDU
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Jan/07 | Mon | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
Law of Gravitation
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/09 | Wed | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
Relation of Mathematics to Physics
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/11 | Fri | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-129 |
Great Conservation Principles
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/14 | Mon | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
Symmetry of Physical Law
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/16 | Wed | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
Distinction of Past and Future
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/18 | Fri | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
Probability and Uncertainty
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/22 | Tue | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
Seeking New Laws
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/23 | Wed | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
The Best Mind Since Einstein
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/25 | Fri | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-!20 |
Take the World from Another Point of View
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
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Jan/28 | Mon | 12:00PM-01:00PM | 6-120 |
The last Journey of a Genius
Andy Neely - Manager of the Technical Services Group
Introduction to TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy)
Yong Zhang
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Jan/25 | Fri | 10:00AM-12:00PM | 13-2137 von Hippel |
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
The lecture provides an introduction to the fundamental principles of transmission electron microscopy. Topics covered include the illumination system, electron lenses and their aberrations, image formation and resolution. A variety of imaging and analysis techniques and their roles specific to inorganic materials, such as crystallography, diffraction patterns and high resolution imaging are to be present with practical demonstration. This presentation will also introduce TEM sample preparation techniques for a wide range of materials, including metals, semiconductors, powders and thin films.
Contact: Yong Zhang, 13-1034, 617 253-5092, YZHANG05@MIT.EDU
Invigorating Science: The Newton-Goethe Debate on Vision and the Significance to Contemporary Physics, Art, and Virtual Reality/AI
Bernhardt Trout, Professor of Chemical Engineering
Enrollment: email me ASAP if interested
Sign-up by 11/30
Limited to 6 participants
Attendance:
Prereq: none
Fee: $0.01
for we will provide ~$100 of supplies incl. books
This two day seminar will address contemporary issues in Physics, Art, and Virtual Reality by exploring the debate between Goethe and Newton on vision and color, and its ramifications. Newton’s victory led to the division between the view of vision and color in the physical sciences and that in art (the latter of which retained for the most part Goethe’s view). Quantum mechanics, while making up for the mechanistic failures of the Newtonian approach, did little to change that division. Virtual Reality and Artificial Intelligence opens up the possibility that a syncretic approach to color from both art and physics may emerge or even that a holistic approach to color might emerge that is consistent with that of both art and physics.
The seminar will require considerable preparatory work, consisting of readings, basic optical experiments and responses to study questions due in advance over the January IAP period followed by a seminar summary due afterwards. Space is extremely limited. Preference to Juniors, Seniors, and starting graduate students. A generous stipend will be provided to students who complete all work. If interested, please email ASAP Bernhardt Trout, Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering: trout@mit.edu.
Contact: Bernhardt Trout, E19-502B, 617 258-5021, TROUT@MIT.EDU
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Jan/30 | Wed | 09:00AM-09:00PM | TBD |
Svetozar Minkov - Professor of Philosophy, Bernhardt Trout - Professor of Chemical Engineering
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Jan/31 | Thu | 09:00AM-06:00PM | Location TBD |
Bernhardt Trout - Professor of Chemical Engineering, Svetozar Minkov - Professor of Philosophy
| Date TBD | Time TBD | Location TBD | ||
Session Leaders TBD
Modern Cyclopses - The Era of Giant Telescopes
Gabor Furesz, Principal Research Scientist
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Jan/28 | Mon | 03:00PM-03:30PM | Marlar Lounge 37-252 |
Enrollment: Unlimited: No advance sign-up
Prereq: none
While astronomical observations have been carried out for thousands of years it is only the past four centuries when our naked eyes have been aided by telescopes. With today's 'giant eyes' we can peer really deep into the night sky, literally reaching the edge of the (observable) Universe. But to get there we have to build larger and larger, ever more sensitive, better telescopes and instruments. It has been really just the past few decades when progress was exponential, just like in other fields: thanks to computers, highly sensitive digital detectors and other modern design and manufacturing technologies. But progress in astronomical instrumentation is also influenced by commercialization, the consumer market, as well as history and politics - as these extremely large and complex scientific machines require collaboration and unique technology developments that point beyond a single nation, even the U.S. One could rightfully ask: do we really need these even larger giant telescopes, if they are so expensive and we already can see to the edge of the Universe? I will argue for the "yes" answer... Read the full abstract for this activity
See all MKI IAP events listed at space.mit.edu
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
Plasma Science and Fusion Center IAP Series
Martin Greenwald, Deputy Director, PSFC, Paul Rivenberg, Communications and Outreach Coordinator, Dennis Whyte, Director, PSFC; Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering, Anne White, Associate Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering
Enrollment: Limited: First come, first served (no advance sign-up)
Attendance: Participants welcome at individual sessions
This series introduces plasma physics research and areas of related interest at the Plasma Science and Fusion Center. See URL below. http://www.psfc.mit.edu/
Sponsor(s): Plasma Science and Fusion Center
Contact: Paul Rivenberg, NW16-284, 617 253-8101, RIVENBERG@PSFC.MIT.EDU
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Jan/15 | Tue | 11:00AM-12:00PM | NW17-218 |
This introduction to the science and technology underlying magnetic fusion energy will review the current state of research and provide an overview of MIT's SPARC project, designed to demonstrate net fusion energy. The talk will highlight the contributions of MIT students to plasma physics research and fusion engineering.
Libby Tolman - Graduate Student
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Jan/15 | Tue | 01:00PM-02:00PM | NW17-218 |
Visit the Alcator C-Mod tokamak, a major fusion energy experiment that completed its final run with breakthrough results. Alcator C- Mod is the third in a series of tokamak devices at MIT that use very high magnetic fields to confine plasmas operating near 100,000,000 degrees.
Session Leaders TBD
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Jan/16 | Wed | 10:00AM-12:00PM | NW17-218 |
Assigned to a team, you will be provided with rules and parameters for designing your own fusion power plant. After an allotted time, each team will submit their figures, to be entered into an Excel spread sheet that will show how successful the design is. The best result will win a prize.
Dennis Whyte - Director, PSFC; Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering
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Jan/18 | Fri | 11:00AM-12:00PM | NW17-218 |
Learn how the largest laser facilities - the National Ignition Facility (NIF), the OMEGA laser, and the Z Pulsed Power Facility - are used to conduct Inertial Confinement Fusion (ICF) and laboratory astrophysics experiments. This presentation will be followed by a tour of the High-Energy-Density Physics (HEDP) Laboratory at MIT.
Graeme Sutcliffe - Graduate Student, Neel Kabadi - Graduate Student
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Jan/18 | Fri | 12:00PM-01:00PM | NW17-218, Meet in NW17-218, then go to NW21 |
Following the HEDP talk, join members of the PSFC's High-Energy Density Physics Lab to see how MIT supports research into inertial confinement fusion, collaborating with LLNL's National Ignition Facility and the University of Rochester's OMEGA laser.
Session Leaders TBD
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Jan/22 | Tue | 01:00PM-03:00PM | 34-101 |
In a series of lightning talks seven experts will discuss the current MIT Fusion Landscape. Topics will range from engineering and scientific underpinnings to finance, entrepreneurship and social impact. Join us to learn about MITs smarter, faster path to fusion energy.
For more information:http://www.psfc.mit.edu/events/2019/the-mit-fusion-landscape
Dennis Whyte - Director, PSFC; Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering
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Jan/23 | Wed | 11:00AM-12:00PM | NW17-218 |
The Divertor Tokamak Test Facility (DTT) is a new high-field tokamak whose construction has recently been approved by the Italian government.
This talk will briefly discuss the path which lead to the DTT approval, give an overview of the DTT interim design and illustrate the present main physics and technical choices, the overall status of the project and the plan for the short and medium-term future.
Piero Martin - Professor
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Jan/26 | Sat | 10:00AM-10:00PM | NW17-218, Hours listed are available, not mandatory |
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Jan/27 | Sun | 10:00AM-10:00PM | NW17-218, Hours listed are available, not mandatory |
Teams of up to four will seek machine learning solutions to a set of control, optimization, and data mining problems relevant to modern fusion research. Submissions will be judged and prizes awarded. Advance sign-up encouraged. Contact: rivenberg@psfc.mit.edu
Learn more & register at event website.http://www.psfc.mit.edu/events/2019/hack-for-fusion-a-machine-learning-hackathon-at-mits-plasma-science-and-fusion-center
Cristina Rea - Research Scientist, DIII-D, Ted Golfinopoulos - Research Scientist
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Jan/29 | Tue | 11:00AM-12:00PM | NW17-218 |
Inertial confinement fusion (ICF) experiments and their corresponding computer simulations produce an immense amount of rich data. However, quantitatively interpreting that data remains a grand challenge. Learn more: http://www.psfc.mit.edu/events/2019/machine-learning-guided-discovery-and-design-for-inertial-confinement-fusion
Kelli Humbird - PhD Candidate
The Future of X-ray Polarimetry in Astronomy and Lab Tour
Dr. Herman Marshall, Principal Research Scientist, Dr. Alan Garner, Postdoctoral Associate
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Jan/29 | Tue | 02:30PM-03:30PM | Marlar Lounge 37-252 |
Enrollment: no limit for talk; tour limit 20, sign up at 2:25 for lab tour
Sign-up by 01/29
Limited to 20 participants
Prereq: attend 2pm talk to take two tours that follow
The Future of X-ray Polarimetry in Astronomy and Lab Tour
I will present several projects to measure X-ray polarizations of astronomical sources over the next 5-10 yrs. Previous observations were obtained in 1970s for bright Galactic sources, e.g. X-ray binaries and the Crab Nebula, using a Bragg reflection from graphite crystals, limiting measurements to 2.6 and 5.2 keV. Recently, a few detections have been reported using Compton scattering at hard X-rays. A newly approved NASA mission is the Imaging X-ray Polarization Explorer (IXPE). It would operate in the 2-8 keV range and is expected to launch in late 2020. It has an imaging capability, with a resolution of about a half arc-minute, and should detect X-ray polarizations as low as 1-5 % for a dozen or more active galaxies, supernova remnants, neutron stars, and X-ray binaries during a mission lifetime of a few years. I will describe the instrument and a few of the science goals. I will also describe a design for a sounding rocket based polarimeter to work in the 0.2-0.6 keV band. The method uses gratings developed at MIT and multilayer coated mirrors. Potential targets include active galaxies, isolated neutron stars, and nearby black hole binaries in outburst. The configuration is extensible to orbital use, possibly to be combined with other instruments to provide a bandpass from 0.2 to 50 keV.
Talk will be followed by a tour of MIT’s X-ray Polarimetry Lab, where new X-ray instrumentation is currently being developed.
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
Two Talks and Tour! Formation of Gold and other heavy elements via the R(apid neutron capture)-process; An Explanation of the Science Behind LIGO
Dr. Evan Hall, Postdoctoral Scholar, Mr. Benjamin Lane, Dr. Rana Ezzeddine, Postdoctoral Associate
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Jan/30 | Wed | 01:30PM-03:00PM | NW22 interaction are |
Enrollment: two tours with a 10 person limit each
Sign-up by 01/30
Limited to 10 participants
Formation of Gold and other heavy elements via the R(apid neutron capture)-process
Dr. Rana Ezzeddine 1:30-2:00pm
Read full abstract on space.mit.edu
An Explanation of the Science Behind LIGO; tour of the LIGO Lab
Come see how the quantum optics research here at MIT will improve detections of binary neutron stars and black holes in LIGO to be more often and more informative.
Dr. Evan Hall and Mr. Benjamin Lane 2:00-3:00pm
Attendees will be divided into two groups of 10. Group A will hear talk by Dr. Evan Hall, while the Group B starts with the lab tour led by Mr. Benjamin Lane. Group A will take the lab tour following the talk, while Group B will get the talk after the lab tour. Talk and tour 30 minutes each.
Read full abstract on space.mit.edu
Sponsor(s): Kavli Institute for Astrophysics
Contact: Debbie Meinbresse, 37-241, 617 253-1456, MEINBRES@MIT.EDU
Unconventional photovoltaic effects
Bruno Lorenzi, PhD
Enrollment: Limited: First come, first served (no advance sign-up)
Limited to 20 participants
Attendance: Participants welcome at individual sessions
Prereq: Basic semiconductors physics
Most of the university courses on photovoltaics, only discuss the standard photovoltaic effect based on p-n junctions. This is understandable considering that the major part of nowadays technologies, converting light into electricity, are based on this systems.
However, there are several other effects that can generate a current/voltage in semiconductors under illumination. Examples are the Dember effect, the bulk photovoltaic effect, the thermal photoelectric effect, and the photoelectromagnetic effect. These phenomena, and many other solutions was proposed, and are still proposed, as viable options to overcome some limitations of p-n junctions.
In this activity the most relevant unconventional photovoltaic effects will be presented and analyzed.
The aim of this mini-class is to provide a wider understanding of the photovoltaic effect, in all its multiple aspects and limitations, with an overview of the most recent advancements of non p-n photovoltaics and its most likely future perspectives.
Pre-requisite for the understanding of the class contents is the knowledge of basic semiconductors physics (band model, statistic distributions, light-matter interaction, etc.).
Contact: Bruno Lorenzi, 7-034, 328 543-8976, BLORENZI@MIT.EDU
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Jan/17 | Thu | 10:00AM-11:30PM | 2-146 |
Introduction to photovoltaics and the limits of p-n junctions.
Bruno Lorenzi - PhD
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Jan/22 | Tue | 10:00AM-11:30AM | 2-146 |
Introduction to unconventional photovoltaic, and analysis of Dember effect, thermal photoelectric effect, and photoelectromagnetic effect.
Bruno Lorenzi - PhD
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Jan/24 | Thu | 10:00AM-11:30AM | 2-146 |
Description and analysis of bulk photovoltaic effects.
Bruno Lorenzi - PhD
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Jan/29 | Tue | 10:00AM-11:30AM | 2-146 |
Discussion on the recent advancements and the future perspectives of non p-n photovoltaic systems.
Bruno Lorenzi - PhD
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