Discover how things work
In the physics and astronomy department, we are constantly amazed by the wonders of creation. We love to share our fascination with others, and we want to be wise stewards of science and technology. Join us in exploring the “world of things,” which includes the weird interactions of quantum particles, the biophysics of cells, astronomical processes involving stars and galaxies, and industrial applications of lasers, plasmas, and special electronic materials.
Quick Facts
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2
astronomical observatories managed by physics and astronomy students
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5-10
students take paid research jobs in this department each summer
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100%
of 2016 physics graduates were employed or in graduate school one year after graduation.
Department Info
There are no announcements at this time.
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Team of researchers challenge bold astronomical prediction
A paper published in the Astrophysical Journal Letters reevaluates Calvin astronomy professor Larry Molnar's prediction that a binary star in the constellation Cygnus is a strong candidate to merge and explode in the near future.
News & Stories, September 7, 2018 -
Calvin Observatory magnifies Mars
On Friday, July 27, the general public has the opportunity to see Mars under high magnification using the Calvin College Observatory. Professor Jason Smolinski describes what viewers can expect to see.
News & Stories, July 26, 2018 -
Stellar research
Todd Hoeksema '78, Distinguished Alumni Award honoree, reflects on his awe for creation
Spark, December 01, 2017 -
Calvin College student named Lilly Graduate Fellow
Aaron Abma, a philosophy and physics double major, is one of ten students selected in 2017 as a Lilly Graduate Fellow.
News & Stories, May 24, 2017 -
Research team's discovery grabs global headlines
A Calvin student's curiosity led to a discovery that is making headlines in major publications all over the world.
News & Stories, January 18, 2017 -
Astronomy prof, student predict explosion that will change the night sky
A Calvin College professor and former student's bold prediction of a change coming to the night sky has moved significantly closer to reality.
News & Stories, January 6, 2017 -
Out of this world: Lunar sample comes to Calvin
A lunar sample will be displayed in Calvin's Bruce Dice Mineralogical Museum starting November 28.
News & Stories, November 22, 2016 -
Calvin hosts lunar eclipse viewing open house featuring Botjes planetarium
A recent total lunar eclipse drew 170 people to the Calvin College observatory, where they learned about the planetarium's sun-moon dial.
News & Stories, October 8, 2015
