Data from the cosmos
Physics & Astronomy
Explore the Wonders of the Universe
Welcome to the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Delaware, where the pursuit of scientific discovery and innovation meets cutting-edge research and academic excellence. Our department is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of scholars, educators, and students who are passionate about unraveling the mysteries of the universe and pushing the boundaries of human knowledge. From the intricacies of subatomic particles to the vast expanse of the cosmos, our faculty and students are engaged in groundbreaking research that addresses some of the most pressing questions in modern physics and astronomy.
Why Physics and Astronomy at UD?
- Research Opportunities: The department is renowned for its research in experimental condensed matter physics and atomic, molecular, and optical physics.
- Faculty Composition: The Department of Physics and Astronomy has over 30 full-time faculty members with diverse research interests, contributing to a robust academic environment.
- Community Impact: The department's research activities include high-altitude balloon flights, cosmic ray observatories, and gamma-ray telescopes, contributing to global scientific knowledge and community engagement.
100%
of physics and astronomy graduates are employed or pursuing further education.
Top 3%
UD is a Tier-1 research university and is ranked in the top 3% of US universities for research activity.
Top 85
UD has 80 research centers and has consistently been in the top 85 (out of 633) institutions for R&D expenditures from the DOD, DOE, NASA, NSF, and USDA.
Latest News
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Mapping out the heliosphere, Earth’s protective bubble
September 18, 2025 | Written by Beth MillerUD’s Matthaeus helps shape NASA’s IMAP mission, launching this month -
Uncovering Hidden CAS
September 16, 2025 | Written by CAS Communications StaffDiscover the hidden gems of the University of Delaware’s College of Arts and Sciences, from a celestial music instrument and solar system walk to rare fashion collections, a vintage printing press, and groundbreaking conservation technology. -
New College of Arts and Sciences Leadership Roles Announced
August 27, 2025 | Written by CAS Communication StaffCollege of Arts and Sciences dean Caleb Everett has appointed three faculty members to new roles on the College’s leadership team.
Upcoming Events
Research Feature
William Matthaeus, internationally renowned space physicist, was elected to the National Academy of Sciences, one of the most prestigious honors for a scientist. He also received UD's highest faculty award, the Francis Alison Award.
Francis Allison Award Video
YouTube Video Link for Francis Alison Award 20 2video: youtube.com/watch?v=KLErz3sEYTY
Data From the Cosmos
In the summer of 2021, data gathered by the world’s largest observatory, IceCube, provided a group of 16 undergraduate and graduate students from UD and five other institutions with the opportunity to contribute to research on neutrinos, high-energy subatomic particles that speed through space.
