Welcome to the Department of Astronomy at the University of Michigan. “Welcome” is derived from the Old English “wilcuma” meaning “a wished-for guest”. Astronomy is for everyone. You are welcome here.
What is our mission? We are driven to unlock the secrets of the Universe, from the formation and evolution of stars and their planets to the effects that black holes and neutron stars exert on their surroundings, to the drivers of galaxies’ and clusters’ assembly and growth. Our goal is to lead the astronomical community by optimizing the use of unique resources to which we have access. We strive to maintain a supportive and welcoming climate, while identifying structural changes we can make to improve equity and inclusion. We embrace the goals of training the next generations of astronomers and teaching the wonders of the Universe to everyone, utilizing best practices in mentoring and retention. The success of our department depends on making new discoveries, training new astronomers, and sharing the wonders of the Universe with all who want to learn.
History
The University of Michigan Department of Astronomy has been among “the leaders and the best” in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics since the beginning. The first President of the University of Michigan, Dr. Henry Philip Tappan, was inaugurated in 1852. His vision for higher education was that it should create knowledge through research in addition to transmitting it and this required investment in infrastructure. The Detroit Observatory was conceived of in 1852 and the building was completed in 1854 with the strong support of Tappan. Its instruments were among the largest and most precise in the world and established the first science department at the University of Michigan. With the MDM Observatories on Kitt Peak in Arizona, as well as the Magellan Observatory on Las Campanas in Chile, the department operates observatories in both hemispheres. We are now collaborating to build instruments for the largest telescope in the world, the 39-meter diameter Extremely Large Telescope of the European Southern Observatory. For more information about our observing programs, please visit our observatories page. From analytic theory and computer modeling, to observing with and building instruments for ground- and space-based telescopes, our department members continue to lead.
Explore
From information about research opportunities and collaboration, our educational programs, or to learn more about how we can help you in whatever way we can, please have a look around. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please ask for help.
You are welcome here. Astronomy is for everyone. Go Blue.
