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

2017 to present: 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