Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University students are advancing their scientific endeavors through the APEX (Atmospheric Physics Experiment) program. In collaboration with national teams, EMU students recently launched a high-altitude weather balloon to measure changes in galactic cosmic rays during heightened solar activity. The mission focused on studying the Forbush Decrease, a rare event caused by coronal mass ejections from the sun affecting Earth's magnetic field.

EMU APEX offers student scientists opportunities to design and conduct atmospheric experiments. Originating from a NASA-funded project, it involves making measurements from high-altitude balloons during solar eclipses.

Professor Dave Pawlowski of EMU's Physics and Astronomy department emphasized the practical experience gained by students: “Projects like EMU APEX get students to go beyond the classroom and put the knowledge and tools they have been building into practice.” He added that such experiences prepare students for future problem-solving roles in society.

Physics seniors Joud Bamehriz and Isaac Thompson shared how APEX influenced their academic journeys. Bamehriz expressed excitement about contributing to a mission combining atmospheric science, particle detection, and engineering. Thompson valued the opportunity to expand his professional skills.

Since December, EMU's student scientists have enhanced their payloads for better data collection. Their recent launch revealed discrepancies between ground-based detectors and their instruments due to differences in energy measurement levels.

Professor Pawlowski highlighted the diversity among participants: “When younger students see people like themselves having fun in real science missions, they start to see themselves in this space.”

APEX has clarified career paths for Bamehriz and Nathan Guerra. Bamehriz aims for a career in aerospace or applied physics after honing skills in instrumentation and data analysis through APEX. Guerra plans to explore electrical engineering further following his involvement in the project.

The APEX team is planning new missions, including upgrades focusing on balloon venting at extreme altitudes. They also consider launching another balloon during the next total solar eclipse visible from Spain in August 2026, involving both EMU and high school students if funding permits.

Eastern Michigan University was founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university. It serves nearly 13,000 students across various disciplines through its colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; along with its graduate school. Nationally recognized for excellence, diversity, and applied education commitment, more information can be found on EMU’s website or EMU Today for updates.