The Department of Physics and Astronomy has a long and distinguished history of innovative research and outstanding teaching from its founding in 1867 and the work of its first chair Samuel Langley to the efforts in a wide range of topics by the current faculty.
Prominent Faculty
- Norman Austern
- John Brashear
- Bernie Cohen
- David Halliday
- Cyril Hazard
- Samuel Pierpont Langley
- Irving Lowe
- Ted Newman
- Carlo Rovelli
Famous Graduates
The Department of Physics and Astronomy has various Famous and Distinguished Alumni.
Past and Present Departmental Chairs
2024 to present: Andrew Zentner
2017 to 2024: Arthur Kosowsky
2015 to 2017: Adam Leibovich
2006 to 2015: David Turnshek
2000-2006: David Jasnow
1994-2000: Frank Tabakin
1991-1994: James V. Maher
1985-1991: Eugene Engels
1982-1985: Philip Stehle
1976-1982: Myron P. Garfunkel
1970-1976: Philip Stehle
1962-1970: Frederick Keffer
1951-1962: David Halliday