Rigel Cappallo

Research Scientist Collecting and analyzing EDGES data, observation and system-design for the Haystack 37-meter telescope, computer modelling of physical systems, public outreach and education.
Office Phone 978-302-3298 (cell)

I am a Research Scientist in the Astronomy Research Group. I received my bachelor’s degree in physics with a minor in mathematics from the University of Massachusetts–Lowell, and went on to receive both a Master’s and PhD in physics from the same university. While there, my studies focused on high-energy astrophysics, with a concentration on X-ray data analysis and computer modeling of both black hole and neutron star binary systems. After completing my PhD, I remained at the University of Massachusetts–Lowell for another year as a Postdoctoral Fellow, expanding my research to include novel approaches to time-domain analysis and stellar population studies. My current projects at Haystack include analysis of the 21-cm signal from the epoch of re-ionization (EoR) with the EDGES team and system design and observation with the Haystack 37-meter telescope. Additionally, I am very passionate about educational and community outreach, and to that end am working with colleagues to maintain and promote the small radio telescope (SRT) program. On a personal note, I love playing the piano, photography, and always enjoy a good round of golf. 

Spotlight Projects
EDGES

The goal of EDGES is to detect hydrogen signatures generated during the period of the formation of the first stars and galaxies.