Dr. Allen W. Shafter

BA     Physics         1977   University of California, Irvine

MA    Astronomy   1978   University of California, Los Angeles

PhD   Astronomy   1983   University of California, Los Angeles

Research Interests

Artist's visualization of a nova (NASA/Hardy)
The Andromeda Galaxy (M31) (Capella Obs.)

My principal research is focused on the study of cataclysmic variable stars: Novae, Dwarf Novae, and Nova-like variables (An artist's conception is shown above). This work includes the study of the fundamental properties of these systems in our own galaxy, as well as the study of the spatial distribution and population of nova systems in nearby galaxies, such as M31 (above).

  • Visit my Extragalactic Nova web page.

    • Currently Teaching

    Spring 2013 Classes

    Fundraising

  • Led the effort to secure the principal gift of $710,000 from the estate of Phillips Claud, Jr. for the construction of a 1.25-m telescope at Mount Laguna Observatory.

    • Some Astronomical Links of Interest...

    Personal Links Follow

    P. J. O'Rourke on cars ...

    Hike to the Summit of Mt San Jacinto (October 16, 2011)

    Pictures from the Past ...

    Train Hopping Trip #1 (Summer 1974)

    Train Hopping Trip #2 (Summer 1975)

    Train Hopping Trip #3 (Summer 1977)

    Some early life experiences are chronicled here:

    Goat Canyon Hike

    Mojave Desert Heritage & Cultural Association (MDHCA) Fall 2007 Rendezvous

    Back to Faculty page
    Back to Observatory home page

    Questions or comments?
    shafter@sciences.sdsu.edu

    The information on this page represents that of Allen Shafter and not necessarily that of San Diego State University. Allen Shafter takes full responsibility for the information presented.

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