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For students who want to understand the universe through physics and mathematics and
are considering a Ph.D. or research career in astronomy or astrophysics, Juniata offers
a program of emphasis (POE) in astrophysics.
Students will build a rigorous foundation in mathematics, physics, astronomy, computing,
and observational methods, then apply that preparation to advanced astrophysics, research,
and a senior capstone.
The astrophysics POE combines substantial preparation in mathematics and physics with
astronomy, computing, observational methods, and a two-course astrophysics sequence.
For students who want to understand the universe through physics and mathematics and
are considering a Ph.D. or research career in astronomy or astrophysics, Juniata offers
a program of emphasis (POE) in astrophysics.
Students will build a rigorous foundation in mathematics, physics, astronomy, computing,
and observational methods, then apply that preparation to advanced astrophysics, research,
and a senior capstone.
The astrophysics POE combines substantial preparation in mathematics and physics with
astronomy, computing, observational methods, and a two-course astrophysics sequence.
Explore Other Astronomy Pathways
Access Three Observatories
Juniata students can work with telescopes, astronomical cameras, spectrographs, robotic
systems, and data-analysis tools across three observing facilities.
Students do more than visit an observatory for a demonstration. Depending on their
coursework and research, they may help plan observations, operate instruments, acquire
and calibrate images, analyze light curves and spectra, troubleshoot equipment, and
explain astronomy to public audiences.
Access Three Observatories
Juniata students can work with telescopes, astronomical cameras, spectrographs, robotic
systems, and data-analysis tools across three observing facilities.
Students do more than visit an observatory for a demonstration. Depending on their
coursework and research, they may help plan observations, operate instruments, acquire
and calibrate images, analyze light curves and spectra, troubleshoot equipment, and
explain astronomy to public audiences.
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Sparks Farm Robotic Observatory
A multi-telescope research facility supporting robotic and remotely operated observations, student projects, and long-term monitoring.
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Paul E. Hickes Observatory
A convenient campus facility for teaching, spectroscopy, student training, public observing, and special events.
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Starlight Observatory at Isett Acres
An expanding part of Juniata's astronomy infrastructure, creating additional opportunities for observing, instrumentation, and student participation.
Learn by Doing
From operating telescopes to evaluating newly acquired images, Juniata students take active roles in observing, instrumentation, analysis, and scientific decision-making.
Learn by Doing
From operating telescopes to evaluating newly acquired images, Juniata students take active roles in observing, instrumentation, analysis, and scientific decision-making.
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Observing Under the Night Sky
Students combine direct experience of the sky with instrument-based observing.
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Learning the Instruments
Students gain hands-on familiarity with telescopes, cameras, mounts, and observatory systems.
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Working Alongside Faculty
Small-group observing creates opportunities for direct mentoring and substantial student responsibility.
Undergraduate Research
At Juniata, students investigate real astronomical questions.
Research can involve original observations, archival data from space missions, computational
analysis, scientific instrumentation, and the communication of results.
Undergraduate Research
At Juniata, students investigate real astronomical questions.
Research can involve original observations, archival data from space missions, computational
analysis, scientific instrumentation, and the communication of results.
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Variable Stars
Interacting Binary Systems
Students use time-series photometry to study binary stars and investigate how their light curves change over time.
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Space Data
TESS Light Curves
Students use precision observations from NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite to study stellar variability across many observing sectors.
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Star Clusters
Imaging and Cluster Analysis
Students acquire multicolor images, construct color–magnitude diagrams, and evaluate candidate star clusters using ground-based and Gaia data.
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Instrumentation
Observatory Systems
Students work directly with cameras, focusers, filters, spectroscopy, data pipelines, and the practical operation of research facilities.
Beyond the Coursework
Juniata provides an astronomy education built around participation. Students can connect scientific study with travel, public engagement, collaboration, and professional development.
Beyond the Coursework
Juniata provides an astronomy education built around participation. Students can connect scientific study with travel, public engagement, collaboration, and professional development.
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Study Astronomy Abroad
Visit significant astronomical sites, observe the global practice of astronomy, and connect classroom learning with major facilities and sky events.
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Present Your Work
Develop posters, talks, research reports, and conference presentations while learning how scientific results are communicated.
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Engage the Community
Help lead public observing nights, school visits, eclipse activities, and other programs that make astronomy accessible to wider audiences.
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Build Practical Skills
Gain experience with scientific programming, quantitative analysis, instrumentation, teamwork, troubleshooting, and technical communication.