On February 22, 2020 a new 0.61-m telescope was installed in the campus observatory on the top of the Eyring Science Center. This is a new state-of-the-art PlaneWave CDK24 telescope. It is currently in the process of being commissioned to make it a fully robotic system. This telescope will support undergraduate student research, the observational astronomy class (Phscs 329), and potentially the descriptive astronomy class (Phscs 127). Early test targets will include transiting planet candidates from the NASA TESS satellite and pulsating variable stars.
News and Events
Dr. Gus Hart received the 2024 Karl G. Maeser Research and Creative Arts Award for his work in computational material science and his continued innovation in computational methods.
This winter, ten students in BYU’s new “Advanced Planetary Astrophysics” taught by Darin Ragozzine course gained hands-on experience in planetary science research, mastering interdisciplinary skills to prepare for future careers in astronomy.
Starting Fall 2025, BYU will offer a new Applied Physics: Data Science major that combines rigorous physics training with data science skills to prepare students for the growing demand in data-driven careers.
BYU's new Biological Physics course introduces students to the physics behind biological processes, fostering interdisciplinary skills to tackle complex biological questions.
The university's new electron microscopy facility opened in fall of 2025, offering atomic-level imaging and student-led research.
Brian Anderson and his students celebrated BYU's 150th birthday by blowing out candles using high-intensity focused sound waves.
Nobel Laureate Kip Thorne Inspires BYU Students with the Future of Gravitational-Wave Science
Four Decades Under the Stars: Honoring Dr. Mike Joner and the Legacy of West Mountain Observatory.
Connecting Experience to Opportunity: External Advisory Council Supports Career Pathways and Job Success for BYU Physics and Astronomy Students.
From Trapped Ions to Quantum Frontiers: Dr. AJ Rasmusson Launches Experimental Quantum Physics at BYU.