Join the Pacific Department of Physics to experience exciting frontiers in modern astronomy. Learn how world-class telescopes like the James Webb Space Telescope are being used to investigate the most distant galaxies in the Universe and discover exoplanets that might harbor alien life. With interactive activities and nighttime stargazing with our faculty, it's sure to be an excellent experience for all.
Frontiers of Modern Astronomy is an opportunity to explore the Universe and experience first-hand how astronomers work to answer the big questions: how the Universe formed, why the stars shine and how we can look for life elsewhere in the Universe. The program is led by astronomers in the Department of Physics who will share their own experiences of discovery and exploration in planets, galaxies and the Universe.
During the day, you will be learning about the Earth, Sun and moon, and our celestial neighbors within the solar system. You will learn about the stars and the night sky, in our planetarium during the day and under the stars at night. You will learn how astronomers are racing to find Earth-like planets in other star systems, and look for life in the Universe. You will learn about galaxies, from our own Milky Way to the most distant objects in the Universe. You will learn from astronomers how discoveries are made, and how we unlock the secrets of the cosmos.
Associate Professor of Physics
Ph.D. in Astronomy, University of Maryland, 2012
Daniel Jontof-Hutter is a planetary astrophysicist. He began his research in the solar system, but moved on to study planetary systems around other stars. His discoveries include planetary systems that are very different to the solar system, as we begin to understand how common Earth-like planets are in our galaxy. The Physics faculty at Pacific includes a group of astronomers whose passion for making new discoveries is matched by their excitement to teach astronomy.
Assistant Professor
B.S. Physics & Astronomy, 2005
M.S. Astrophysics, 2007
Ph.D. Astronomy & Astrophysics, 2011, Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Elisa Toloba uses space telescopes and the world's largest telescopes to study the composition and evolution of clusters of galaxies.
Associate Professor
B.S. Astronomy & Theoretical Physics, 2005
M.S. Astronomy, 2007
Ph.D. Astronomy, 2011, Universidad Complutense de Madrid
Guillermo Barro uses the James Webb Space Telescope to study the formation of the first galaxies in the Universe.
Assistant Professor
Dustin Madison uses radio telescopes to study ripples of gravity in the cosmos passing by the Earth.
