Research - James Dent
My research covers a wide array of topics in theoretical particle physics and cosmology, with a recent focus on dark matter and neutrino physics. Dark Matter: Dark matter makes up roughly one-fourth of the energy density of the universe, yet its underlying nature remains a mystery. I am interested in exploring its possible particle nature through studies of indirect and direct detection, as well as prospects for dark matter signals at collider experiments such as the Large Hadron Collider. My research has been especially aimed at determining to what extent any dark matter properties, including mass, spin, and interaction type, can be distinguished at existing and future experiments. Neutrino Physics: I have recently been investigating coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering, the observation of which was first announced in August of 2017. This coherent scattering process holds a great deal of promise for exploring physics beyond the Standard Model, and also poses an interesting challenge as an irreducible background for upcoming dark matter direct detection experiments. My collaborators and I are actively pursuing the use of this process as a tool for discovering new physics, including novel neutrino interactions and the possibility of probing new sectors of particle physics through coherent neutrino scattering. I am also a member of the Mitchell Institute Neutrino Experiment at Reactor (MINER), which plans to measure coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering using semiconductor detectors placed near the core of the nuclear reactor at the Nuclear Science Center at Texas A&M University. The MINER program is part of a substantial worldwide effort aimed at exploring new physics scenarios through coherent neutrino scattering. Cosmology: Along with my recent emphasis on dark matter and neutrino physics, I also have interests in the areas of gravitation and cosmology. This includes work on inflation, dark energy, gravitational waves, and modifications of general relativity. Additionally, there is a great deal of overlap with cosmology and my work on dark matter and neutrino physics, including physics of the early universe, and implications for the growth of large scale structure. My publication record is available at Inspire.
Dominey Observatory - Public Viewing Nights
To reserve your spot, please email observatory@shsu.edu or call (936) 294-1601. Please include the full names of all attendees when making your reservation.
| Date | Time | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, March 8th | 8:00pm | Reservations are currently at capacity. | |
| Saturday, March 22nd | 8:00pm | Reservations are currently at capacity. | |
| Saturday, April 12th | 8:00pm | Reservations are currently at capacity. | |
| Saturday, April 26th | 8:00pm | Reservations are currently at capacity. | |
FAQ
Can I come to the observatory without a reservation?
No, a reservation is required to visit the Dominey Observatory.
Is food or drink allowed?
No, we ask that all food and drinks be left in your car.
Can I bring my own telescope?
Yes, but prior approval is required when making your reservation. We encourage visitors to bring their own telescopes, but depending on the night, space may be limited.
What are your office hours?
Our office is open Monday through Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM, excluding weekends and holidays.
Can I bring a large group, or do you allow field trips?
For large groups or organizations, please contact us directly to arrange a dedicated viewing session outside of our public events.
I saw that some nights are dedicated to students. Can I visit on those nights?
No, those nights are reserved exclusively for students enrolled in our astronomy courses.
How much does it cost?
Public viewings are FREE! However, we do accept donations.
How to Donate:
- Click Give Now
- Enter your Gift Amount
- Under Gift Designation, select College of Science & Engineering Technology
- Under Area of Support, choose Friends of Physics
Location & Directions
Dominey Observatory
📍 39 Knox Cir, Huntsville, TX 77320
Our location may not appear correctly in Apple Maps. We recommend using Google Maps for accurate directions: 39 Knox Circle