Computational Astrophysics

Computational astrophysics is a branch of astrophysics that employs numerical simulations and computational models to study complex phenomena and processes in the universe. By utilizing advanced computational techniques, we can investigate the behavior of celestial objects, such as stars, galaxies, and black holes, and explore their interactions, evolution, and fundamental properties. Group Site

new_sim.mov

Modeling Double Detonation Type Ia Supernovae

This is my current project - we use the Castro hydrodynamics simulation codes to study double detonation Type Ia supernovae. In the double detonation model, a detonation begins in the accreted helium layer on the surface of a low mass white dwarf, driving a compression wave that converges at the center and ignites the carbon-oxygen core. Our aim is to assess the likelihood and characteristics of a double detonation based upon various initial factors such as chemical composition, core and accretion layer masses, initial helium explosion parameters, and simulation spatial resolution. Most notably, we find that our codes replicate the results of the previously published scientific literature at coarser spatial resolutions, which can potentially save computational cost for future researchers.



Exoplanetary Motions Around τ Ceti

Click the above image to read the full paper!

This project presents a Python-based numerical model that simulates the orbital motion of the seven exoplanets in the τ-Ceti system, a nearby Sun-like star system with potential habitability. The model employs the Yoshida integration method to conduct individual orbital simulations for each planet, resulting in a two-dimensional plot displaying planetary orbits alongside the central star's position. The simulation's accuracy is evaluated by computing the error in the final positions of the planets compared to their initial positions, revealing low error ranges and notable patterns in the planetary orbits, which could contribute to our understanding of planetary dynamics and habitability in exoplanetary systems.