At a glance: Astronomy

Did you know? Opened in September of 2010, ONU's observatory features a roll-off roof, three permanently mounted telescopes, and high-tech CCD equipment to connect the telescopes with computers and monitors.

Astronomy Features:
Starry Nights

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a strong, in-depth education. Students are prepared to participate in active undergraduate research with physics faculty, and each year a number of physics majors are awarded summer research fellowships at various universities across the country. Upon graduation, physics majors are well prepared for positions in industry and government, for teaching high school, or to pursue further education in graduate or professional schools. Visit our department's web site.

Degrees offered

A minor in astronomy is offered through the Department of Physics and Astronomy.

Distinctive features

Doctoral faculty with credentials in astronomy, laser optics, plasma physics, computer modeling, surface and materials and teacher education
Laboratory computers for data acquisition and analysis
Plasma physics laboratory with complex plasma experiment
Laser optics laboratory for producing holograms
Machine shop for making laboratory equipment
12-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope
Networked astronomy computer cluster for analyzing Hubble space telescope data
New observatory with multiple computer-controlled telescopes

Facilities

The department of physics and astronomy is located in the Science Annex, which is connected to the Meyer Hall of Science. The facility includes modern research laboratories, classrooms, student laboratories, a machine shop and computer facilities.

Student organizations

Astronomy Club, Sigma Pi Sigma Honor Society, Society of Physics Students