John Wendeborn

My current research relates to star and planet formation. Specifically, I am studying the outbursting class of very young protostellar objects called FUor Objects.

I am monitoring several FUor objects for variability at millimeter wavelengths to determine the origin for this variability, and by extension, determine the trigger mechanism for these outbursts. FUor objects represent an important stage of stellar evolution, so it is imperative that we understand these objects in their entirety.

I have also begun a project to determine the planet formation potential of FUor disks. Planets are thought to be a possible trigger of the outbursts, but as of yet no planet has been definitively detected within the disk of one of these objects. Nor is it understood whether a planet could even form/survive within these volatile disks.

Additional information can be found on my website.