Date: April 25, 2011

Contact: Carol Connelly, Director, Media & Communication Services, ext. 5267, cconnelly@pnc.edu

PNC Astronomy Club Donates Computer

Westville – The Purdue University North Central Astronomy Club is donating a computer to the PNC Math and Physics Department that will assist both faculty members and students in the classroom.

As explained by Dr. Aaron Warren, assistant professor of Physics, the computer will allow the testing of predictions made by Einstein's theory of gravity.

"We will use the computer to simulate collisions of neutron stars or black holes. These collisions can cause ripples that distort space and time and we think that these ripples are passing through us all the time. Soon, the ripples will be detectable here on Earth, allowing us to test Einstein's theory of gravity predictions."

In addition, the Astronomy Club members will produce movies of the collisions that will be posted on the club website for students and the public to observe, study and enjoy.

The computer will be located in Schwarz Hall Room 235. The computer will be fitted with necessary peripherals and software and will be available for use this summer. It is expected to be the cornerstone of a student resource area and will be used to facilitate student research.

For more information about the PNC Astronomy club email astronomy_club@pnc.edcu .

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