First evaluation of new undergraduate space research projects Original Research Article

Several new research projects in space and atmospheric sciences are described that were designed to involve under graduate physicsmajors. Three individual students worked on each different projects: (1) a study of astronomical observations on a balloon or aircraft platform; (2) analysis and visualization of global atmospheric data sets obtained by satellite and models; (3) the design and construction of a calibration system for rocket-borne instrumentation. At the end of their projects, students were asked to evaluate their research experiences based on a set of questions. The summarized comments from students, research advisor and funding director expose strengths and weaknesses of the research and explain which projects and activities are likely to be more suitable for undergraduates and have a positive impact on potential scientific careers.