The research consists of coordinated imaging and spectroscopic observations of comets during perihelion passage. Images at 5-25 microns and spatially resolved long slit spectra of cometary dust will be acquired with the mid-IR camera at the Mt. Lemmon Observatory 1.5 m telescope, and with the new Long Wavelength Spectrometer at the 10 m Keck telescope. Such a compete set of data has never been obtained for any comet. The superior capabilities of the LWS at Keck will allow us to observe the pattern of the dust emittance in close proximity to the nucleus which determines the morphology of the whole coma. At Mt. Lemmon we can study a larger field of view with longer temporal coverage which is important for better understanding of the physical characteristics of nuclei and comae. We expect to learn new details of the dust optical properties, composition, size distribution and, finally, of cometary nuclei themselves. Interactive activities include teaching of a high enrollment lower division Physics class, and upper division course on a Solar System Formation. Other interactive commitments include: inviting female speakers to participate in the astrophysics seminar series, and initiating a new program using UCSD TV which broadcasts to 10.6 viewers over the local area. Interviews and panel discussion will allow resident women scientists and visitors to discuss their research and other issues relating to women in science.
