Department of Physics & Astronomy, The University of Iowa

06/04/2026

New research from the University of Iowa is shedding light on Mars’ mysterious magnetotail. The study suggests that magnetic reconnection, previously linked to Earth, may also drive many of the red planet’s magnetic “flapping” events, while solar wind interactions could play a direct role. Discover what this means for our understanding of Mars and beyond—read more at the link below.

University of Iowa physicists have identified a possible driving force behind massive disturbances in the magnetic environment of Mars. Yuanzheng Wen In a new study, the researchers analyzed the constituents of Mars’ magnetotail — magnetic plume that extends outward from the planet for more than...

06/02/2026

Iowa is taking off in aerospace innovation!

A recent USA Today article highlights how partnerships across the state are fueling growth, and how the University of Iowa’s Department of Physics & Astronomy is contributing through programs like the Iowa Spaceflight Laboratory.

Read more about Iowa’s growing impact in aerospace below.

Here’s how Iowa is growing its aerospace and defense industry through talent, research and investment.

05/22/2026

We’re proud to celebrate our Department of Physics and Astronomy students who graduated during the University of Iowa’s Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies, May 14–16! 🎓✨

Several Department of Physics and Astronomy students were among the University of Iowa degree candidates participating in the Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies held May 14-16.

05/18/2026

The University of Iowa has unveiled a new $7.2 million Iowa Spaceflight Laboratory in Van Allen Hall, providing cutting-edge facilities for designing, building, and testing instruments for future space missions. The lab builds on the department’s leadership in projects like NASA’s TRACERS mission and strengthens its ability to conduct high-impact research efficiently and competitively. Explore the article and photo gallery to see how this new space advances opportunities for faculty, students, and collaborators.

Breadcrumb Home News Photo gallery: New spaceflight laboratory further positions UI as national space science leader Monday, May 18, 2026 https://now.uiowa.edu/news/2026/05/photo-gallery-new-spaceflight-laboratory-fur…

05/15/2026

From Van Allen Hall to NASA’s chief scientist Jim Green’s journey started at Iowa, where key mentors and hands-on experiences set his course for the stars.
Read how Physics & Astronomy helped launch his path:

Before leading some of NASA’s most ambitious missions, Jim Green found his trajectory at the University of Iowa — where a series of “gravity assists” set him on a path to the stars.

04/30/2026

The Department of Physics and Astronomy recognized the achievements of students, faculty, and staff during its annual Awards Colloquium on April 28, 2026.

The event honored graduating seniors and advanced degree recipients from the 2025-2026 academic year. A complete list of honorees is available in the program, and photos from the event can be viewed in the image gallery.

The Department of Physics and Astronomy celebrated the accomplishments of students, faculty, and staff during the 2026 Awards Colloquium on April 28.

04/29/2026

Thinking about majoring in Physics or Astronomy?
Our department offers majors that open doors to cutting edge research, problem solving careers, and a deeper understanding of the universe. Whether you’re fascinated by the cosmos, curious about how the physical world works, or interested in developing strong analytical and technical skills, there’s a path for you in Physics and Astronomy.
Hear directly from our students about the majors we offer in these short videos:
• Physics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEqFTctG-w8
• Astronomy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlMnIEEps8U
• Physics & Astronomy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pByUN1VFCRU
Learn what you can study, the experiences you can gain, and the exciting careers our graduates pursue. Visit our website to learn more.

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04/08/2026

David Miles, deputy director of research operations in UI’s department of physics and astronomy and a co-investigator for the rocket launch, was tasked with building the magnetometer attached to the rocket. While Miles had seen countless rocket launches before, Norway’s launch was a first for UI graduate student Jessica Mondoskin, the lead graduate student for the magnetometer project.

After a successful rocket launch to study the northern lights in Norway, University of Iowa researchers are awaiting findings from devices they built and attached to the rocket, which measure magnetic fields and electron energy. The rocket took off from the Andøya Space Center on March 11 to study ...

04/02/2026

Associate Professor David Miles has been named the 2026 Scholar of the Year. The award recognizes nationally distinguished achievement in research, scholarship, and creative activity in the past 24 months.

Richard Dvorksy, aerospace principal engineer and interim research administrator, has received the 2026 Distinguished Research Professional Award. This award recognizes staff members who performed exceptional service in support of research at the University of Iowa.

From launching an historic NASA mission to confronting Iowa’s cancer burden in each of the state's 99 counties, University of Iowa researchers and research professionals are driving discoveries that improve lives in Iowa and far beyond.The Office of the Vice President for Research recognized 10

03/26/2026

Thank you to everyone who supported Physics & Astronomy on !
Your gifts help our students explore, discover, and grow—both inside and outside the classroom. We couldn’t do this work without you.