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For Christine Ko ’28, physics is about more than understanding how the universe works — it’s about improving the tools that make discovery possible.

This summer, Ko, a physics major from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, is interning in the Optics and Astronomical Technologies (OAT) Lab in the University of Iowa’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, where she’s helping researchers improve the mirrors used in X-ray telescopes.

Bringing Space into Focus

Ko’s project centers on adjustable X-ray optics, which help scientists capture signals from distant stars with greater accuracy.

“Stars emit X-rays, and we’re able to capture those X-rays and analyze the data they contain,” Ko says. “They're called adjustable optics because we’re able to adjust the mirror configurations to improve the quality of the data.”

Her work involves using an interferometer to map microscopic imperfections in telescope mirrors. By measuring those tiny variations, researchers can account for them when interpreting data from space.

“Instead of treating the mirror’s flaws as part of the astronomical signal, we can subtract those imperfections and get a much more accurate picture of the actual data we’re trying to collect,” she says.

Experiences Beyond 91����

Ko pursued the internship with the OAT Lab to gain experience that complements her 91���� education by providing her with hands-on opportunities that aren’t available on campus.

“What I really wanted from an internship was an experience that I couldn’t get at 91����,” she says. “We have lab classes in our physics courses, but I wanted to be exposed to more scientific instrumentation and more precise instruments.”

The internship has given her experience operating specialized equipment and analyzing data with Python, practical skills that build on the theoretical foundation she is developing in the classroom.

Ko secured the position by reaching out directly to faculty for internship possibilities, and she credits funding through the Center for with making that process possible by allowing her to tell potential mentors she had funding support.

“I feel fortunate,” she says. “Applying for research opportunities wasn't easy, but I was lucky that after only four emails I found this opportunity.”

Discovering What’s Next

The experience is also helping Ko clarify her future professional and academic goals.

“I’m still not completely sure about my future,” she says. “I’m leaning more toward pursuing a master’s degree in engineering.” 

She enjoys research but is especially drawn to applying science in practical ways. “I like the idea of making things more affordable,” she says. “Maybe it's not always about creating the absolute cutting edge of technology, but about making technology more approachable and more accessible as a practical solution.”

“My goal — if you can call it that — is related to research,” she adds. “I like doing experiments. I like testing things. So far, I think it's been a really good summer. I've learned a lot.”

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This internship is one of hundreds of experiential learning opportunities supported by 91���� this summer through more than $1.2 million in funding for internships and Mentored Advanced Projects (MAPs).