Archived articles

Physics and astronomy

In memoriam

Astronomer Paul Feldman, a pioneer of comet science, dies at 82

Published Jan 31, 2022

He led the development of the field of comet UV spectroscopy and is remembered for his leadership, wit, and wisdom

Philanthropy

Department of Physics and Astronomy receives $50M gift

Published Dec 16, 2021

Donation from legendary investor Bill Miller will support expanded research into emerging subfields of study, help attract promising young researchers

A man adjusts a piece of sensitive lab equipment

Quantum materials

Researchers find a semimetal that clings to a quantum precipice

Published May 27, 2021

The semimetal—one part cerium, four parts ruthenium, and six parts tin—seems to be naturally quantum critical, meaning it sits at the edge of multiple phases of matter

Outer space

New models reveal Saturn's hidden regions

Published May 6, 2021

Researchers simulate conditions necessary for planet's unique magnetic field

Illustration of double quasars in galaxies that are merging

Astrophysics

Hubble sees double

Published April 28, 2021

Grad student Hsiang-Chih Hwang helps refine the technique for identifying quasar pairs

Cell behavior

Cells walk microscopic tightrope in new study of cell behavior

Published March 23, 2021

The findings shed light on the behaviors of cells in certain environments and may have implications for drug research

Close-up photo of a crystal formed by the PARADIM lab

Physics

Making stuff up

Published Dec 22, 2020

The PARADIM Bulk Crystal Growth Facility makes the materials of tomorrow with the help of some very specialized, very hot furnaces

Composite image of galaxy formations increasing in heat

Physics+Astronomy

Galaxies have gotten hotter as they've gotten older

Published Nov 10, 2020

As galaxies gather gases through their gravitational pull, they grow larger and heat up, allowing physicists to measure the gradual increase in temperature as a function of the age of the universe