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Department of Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy has a rich and long history dating back to the latter part of the 19th century. Our faculty and students are exploring nature at all length scales, from the subatomic (quarks and gluons) to the macroscopic (black holes and dark energy), and everything in between (atomic and biological systems).

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Largest observed flare from a black hole unleashes the light of 10 trillion suns

CNN — Astronomers have spotted the largest and most distant flare ever observed from a supermassive black hole. Nicknamed “Superman,” the flare originated 10 billion light-years from Earth, and at its peak, the light emitted shone with the brightness of 10 trillion suns. PhysAstro's Danny Milisavljevic was quoted in the article.

Quantum Wonders Unveiled: Quantum Open House 2025 at Purdue

On September 20, the Purdue Department of Physics and Astronomy hosted the Quantum Open House 2025, an annual outreach event celebrating discovery and curiosity in quantum science. Students, educators, and community members experienced an afternoon filled with interactive demonstrations, lab tours, and conversations with Purdue scientists who are pushing the boundaries of quantum science and technology. Check out the 2025 QOH recap!

Michael Manfra receives 2026 APS Oliver E. Buckley Condensed Matter Physics Prize

Michael Manfra, the Bill and Dee O’Brien Distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy has been awarded the American Physical Society’s 2026 Oliver E. Buckley Condensed Matter Physics Prize which recognizes outstanding theoretical or experimental contributions to condensed matter physics.

Tyler Ellison joins Purdue Physics and Astronomy faculty

Tyler Ellison has joined Purdue University’s Department of Physics and Astronomy as an assistant professor. His research focuses on developing new quantum error-correcting codes that could make quantum computing more reliable and efficient.

A cool discovery: Purdue physics team uncovers new quantum state at record-low temperatures

A Purdue University physics team has discovered evidence of a new quantum state of matter. This new state may deepen scientists’ understanding of how electrons organize in two dimensions as it supports highly unusual correlations with an exotic topological order.

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Department of Physics and Astronomy, 525 Northwestern Avenue, West Lafayette, IN 47907-2036 • Phone: (765) 494-3000 • Fax: (765) 494-0706

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