Honors Thesis Defense: Elisa Hoffmann

“Fine-Tuning the Physics of High-Speed Rail in New York State”: High-speed rail (HSR) is a reality in several regions, though not in New York State (NYS). This thesis investigates the benefits and challenges of implementing HSR in NYS, focusing on the physical capabilities of the pantograph-catenary system (PCS) while also considering some legal, environmental, and logistical observations. Emphasis is given to the physics of the PCS to stress the importance of understanding and using the most efficient and effective PCS in HSR.