Founded in 1891, the current UW Astronomy Department is a moderate-sized unit with outstanding strengths in many key areas, as summarized in the astronomy fact sheet. Our faculty, postdocs, researchers, graduate students and many of our undergraduates are engaged in research covering a broad range of astronomical topics that span the full range of modern methodologies from experimental to observational and theoretical. While our award winning teaching faculty provide innovative and engaging courses to the entire UW community, our Department seeks to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere for all members. This involves having community conversations at EquiTea seminars to discuss matters affecting our climate. Additionally, we aim to prepare all of our students of every gender, background, and nationality for a lifetime of curiosity and engagement in modern astrophysics.
The University of Washington has been engaged in astronomy education and research since its earliest days; please check our Departmental History page to learn more.