Is it possible to do astrophysics research

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the feasibility of conducting astrophysics research from home, particularly focusing on the necessary software and computational resources for simulating astrophysical phenomena such as black holes and supernovae. Participants explore the technical requirements, potential limitations, and the distinction between casual simulation and formal research.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that basic knowledge of physics and programming languages like Mathematica, MATLAB, C/C++, and Fortran is essential for performing astrophysics simulations.
  • Others argue that significant computational power is necessary for cutting-edge research, which is typically unavailable at home without substantial financial investment.
  • There is a viewpoint that while one can create simulations at home, true research often requires collaboration and access to university resources.
  • Some participants express a desire to engage in simulations for personal exploration rather than formal research, indicating that this is more feasible from home.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential for "reinventing the wheel" when conducting simulations without prior research into existing work.
  • A later reply emphasizes the importance of learning programming languages seriously to avoid issues when tackling scientific problems.
  • Participants discuss the practicality of running simulations on a decent desktop computer, suggesting that not all projects require supercomputing resources.
  • There are differing opinions on the likelihood of making original discoveries from home, with some expressing skepticism about the realism of such aspirations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that while it is possible to create simulations at home, significant challenges exist regarding the resources and collaboration needed for serious research. There is no consensus on the feasibility of making original discoveries outside of a university setting.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on computational resources, the need for collaboration in research, and the varying definitions of what constitutes "doing research" versus casual simulation work.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in astrophysics, programming for scientific simulations, or those considering independent research in STEM fields may find this discussion relevant.

  • #31
Vanadium 50 said:
DavidWhitbeck, for a long time the state of the art was that a given simulation would either produce an explosion or a remnant, but never both. Things have improved, particularly with the huge increase in computational capacity that allows things like 3-d modeling of convection. This isn't my field, but my understanding is that today's models capture the gross features pretty well, but there's still work needed in getting quantitative agreement with things like light curves and r-process abundances.

Thanks for the info. Looks like things aren't too bad, more like just maturing.
 
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  • #32
I'm sure the OP knows that the odds of making grand discoveries and advances are virtually infinitely against him. S/he plainly knows that.

S/he still wants to learn by coding up some simulations. I can get behind that, promote that, and encourage that. It is a fantastic idea.

I don't see the utility of discouraging him/her from trying it.
 
  • #33
"Is it possible to learn about astrophysics by doing simulations at home?" is a question that gets a much different response than "Is it possible to do astrophysics research at home?"
 
  • #34
ks_physicist said:
I'm sure the OP knows that the odds of making grand discoveries and advances are virtually infinitely against him. S/he plainly knows that.

I don't see that:


Benzoate said:
I want to eventually make my own original discoveries
 

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