Dax Galloway

Dax Galloway grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, and is a junior studying astronomy and astrophysics in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. While in high school, Galloway followed various interests, such as wrestling, playing the cello, and studying math, but he found his strongest passion in astrophysics.

Because of his desire to study astrophysics, Galloway’s college search was limited to a few schools that offered excellent astronomy programs. He chose to attend the University of Wyoming, and, in fall of 2018, Galloway joined the Red Buttes Observatory (RBO) group where he used the 0.6m telescope for exoplanet (any planet that does not orbit around our sun) confirmation. His participation in RBO offered Galloway first-hand experience with astronomy and the opportunity to learn more about exoplanets.

When Galloway joined the UW McNair Scholars program, he chose to maintain research on exoplanets. His project now includes the use of the Wyoming Infrared Observatory’s 2.3m telescope and double-prime imager. At first, Galloway did not realize how involved this project would be, but he still enjoys each challenge that comes his way.

Galloway will graduate in 2021. He plans to pursue a doctorate in astrophysics and, hopefully, continue conducting research.