Dan Naylor
PhD studentResearch Overview
Soft X-rays are generated within planetary magnetosheaths due to the interaction between magnetospheric neutrals and highly charged solar wind ions. Imaging of these soft X-rays is an emerging technology that can allow for a dynamic, global diagnostic view of the magnetosheath region to be built and exploration of the solar wind driving of planetary magnetospheres. I am modelling the magnetosheath of Uranus, a highly complex and interesting system, to investigate soft X-ray emission from the region and ultimately aim to test the viability of sending an SXI along with the planned flagship mission to the Uranian system.
Current Teaching
I am a postgraduate teaching assistant (PGTA) for the following modules in 2025/26:
- PHYS132: Physics Skills II
- PHYS133: Presentations
- PHYS134: Electrical Circuits
- PHYS135: Introduction to Degree Schemes
- PHYS263: Introduction to Astronomy & Astrophysics
- PHYS267: Solar System Physics
- PHYS365: Stellar Structure & the Interstellar Medium
- PHYS362: Advanced Stellar Astrophysics
In 2024/25, I also was a PGTA for PHYS222: Waves & Optics
Autumn MIST 2025
Participation in conference - Academic
IAGA / IASPEI Joint Scientific Meeting 2025
Participation in conference - Academic
What Can X-Rays Tell Us About Uranus's Unusual System?
Oral presentation
Can We Detect Soft X-Ray Emission from Uranus's Magnetosheath?
Oral presentation
FST Celebration of Science
Participation in conference - Academic
Autumn MIST (Birmingham 2024)
Participation in conference - Academic
STFC Introductory Course in Solar and Solar-Terrestrial Physics 2024
Participation in workshop, seminar, course
Charge Exchange X-Ray Universe 2024
Participation in conference - Academic
Postgraduate Research Prize
Prize (including medals and awards)
- Space and Planetary Physics