To achieve the goals of GSMS, students form small teams to pursue a research theme that links the concept of the nature of science with hands-on research in radio astronomy. These teams use a 40-foot diameter radio telescope to investigate open-ended research problems that are designed to cover a variety of research situations. Projects range from measuring the hydrogen gas in the Milky Way to attempting to detect radio emission from the planets, to measuring the emission from black holes in distant galaxies. Student teams are given free access to the telescope for observing and collecting data. NRAO staff scientists act as advisers to the research teams, guiding students by asking question rather than giving answers.
At the conclusion of GSMS 2012, students will participate in a research colloquium, and produce a poster summarizing their findings. These posters will be available here once they have been completed.