The moment I stepped off the SSP Bus into Pinon Hall, I was perplexed as to why anyone would choose to live in New Mexico. The sun burned like a laser and the evenings were characterized by dark thunderstorm clouds and relentless lightning. However, in stark contrast to the weather at SSP, the individuals in SSP have been some of the most interesting and enjoyable people I have ever met.
Although SSP has been one of my most academically rigorous endeavors, I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I love the excitement in the computer room when a PSET problem is finally solved, or the deep late-night discussions and cockroach or sprinkler dodging while walking back from an observation session. In this blog, I wish to highlight some of the non-academic activities in SSP and summarize my last few days.
Over the last weekend, a few of my friends and I purchased LEGO cars at Target. Max and Kevin are avid Formula 1 fans, and they nerded out over what flags to fly on each vehicle and which minifigure would drive. Max, also a talented photographer, took some amazing shots of the cars lined up.
On Sunday afternoon, our TAs taught us how to swing dance. Despite my atrocious dancing, it was less awkward and difficult than I anticipated, and I had a lot of fun. There was a ping pong tournament later that I unfortunately could not attend since I needed to complete my LCO observing log before dinner.
Later on Sunday night, I had my first LCO (Las Cumbres Observatory) observing session, which was a breeze compared to Tortugas Mountain Observatory (TMO). Instead of a 2-hour session in the telescope room at 1 am, I only needed to submit a request on the LCO website at 8 pm. Their extensive network of robotic telescopes took pictures of my asteroid from the most optimal locations around the world. My first picture arrived from Tenerife, Spain in under half an hour! After the observing session, we watched one of my favorite animated movies–Penguins of Madagascar.
This morning, we scaled Tortugas Mountain (also known locally as “A” mountain in reference to the enormous letter “A” engraved into it) to take a tour of TMO. The climb was short but fairly intensive as the incline was very steep. However, the views at the end and the observatory made the hike more than worthwhile. From the peak, I could gaze upon a panoramic view of the expansive, arid Chihuahuan desert and the Rio Grande Valley. The tour guide shared engaging facts about the native wildlife, the history of TMO, and the agricultural opportunities present due to the Rio Grande River.
The observatory was built in the 60s and is currently operated remotely. The interior was very old and it was fascinating to see the vintage technology, astronomical maps and catalogs, and the dark room. I got the chance to both revolve the dome and control the telescope.
While the first week was all lectures, the weekend was packed with activities and the coming week seems no different as SSP picks up its pace. Time has already started to fly, and I can’t wait for the memories and knowledge I will continue to gain over the next 4 weeks!
I’m Dhanush and I am from Saratoga, California in the Bay Area. I have a deep interest in Math, Physics, and especially Computer Science. In my free time, I enjoy hiking or biking on Norcal’s wonderful trails and playing video games with my friends.
