Dragon (Draco) Reed

PhD Astrophysics

Personal Bio

I am fascinated by the nature of gravitational waves, the plurality of measurements possible with Multi-Messenger Astronomy, and the technical problems involved in detecting and locating these high energy sources. I work with Professor Michael Coughlin on the observational side of this problem, using the Las Campanas Observatory (LCO), the Bok 90-inch of Steward Observatory, and the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) to obtain spectroscopic follow-up of white dwarf binary candidates flagged by the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) which will be detectable by the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). I am currently investigating one such short-period white dwarf binary to retrieve mass ratio, orbital radius, and temperatures of each star. With our follow-up spectra, we will also improve a field guide of high energy events, in order to more rapidly identify them. Speedy source identification is always helpful, but becomes imperative in time domain astronomy events such as supernovae, GRBs, and mergers.

Outside of research, I love most outdoor pursuits, especially mountain biking, climbing, trail running and backpacking, as well as juggling and playing violin. I look forward to working with the 2021/2022 cohort now that we can meet in person.

Professional Bio

I am fascinated by the nature of gravitational waves, the plurality of measurements possible with Multi-Messenger Astronomy, and the technical problems involved in detecting and locating these high energy sources. I work with Professor Michael Coughlin on the observational side of this problem, using the Las Campanas Observatory (LCO), the Bok 90-inch of Steward Observatory, and the Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) to obtain spectroscopic follow-up of white dwarf binary candidates flagged by the Zwicky Transient Facility (ZTF) which will be detectable by the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA). I am currently investigating one such short-period white dwarf binary to retrieve mass ratio, orbital radius, and temperatures of each star. With our follow-up spectra, we will also improve a field guide of high energy events, in order to more rapidly identify them. Speedy source identification is always helpful, but becomes imperative in time domain astronomy events such as supernovae, GRBs, and mergers.