Department of Physics & Earth-Space Science

In a demonstration of linear motion, students test the laws of physics by using a dynamic track and standard lab collision carts to measure and record velocity and acceleration over time.

Bringing Theory to Practice

Students jump right into research by launching and tracking a high-altitude research balloon with self-contained experiments, such as how plant seeds and various foods are affected by exposure to a near-space environment, or how high-altitude radiation affects photographic film and paper.

Design Your Own Experiments

Independence to explore your interests

You direct the trajectory of your own learning as a student in the Physics & Earth-Space Science Department at UIndy. While professors guide you in classroom learning, research projects, experiments and reports, you ultimately have the freedom to explore any individual interests. This is practical learning at its best, when your intrigue motivates your research.

Applied theory

Theories studied in courses are used to conduct research projects of your choice—be that computer software or Indiana geological formations. Rather than simply reading and talking about theoretical ideas in physics and earth-space sciences, you learn how to apply them in hands-on experiments and projects.

Research opportunities

Along with this applied learning, you can also become involved in funded research projects. You are given the opportunity to make proposals for Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) to the National Science Foundation, and gain experience in how to receive funding for the projects of your choice.

UIndy balloon from 90,000 feet

Through a research balloon launch, we sent weather-monitoring equipment and a special wide-angle camera into the highest reaches of the atmosphere. The camera, provided by a local storm tracking organization called the BAM Chase Team, was an experimental device that they believed could serve as a new way of observing tornadoes. While no tornadoes occurred that day, the balloon rose to 90,000 feet and the camera caught this stunning image of the Earth and Sun from the edge of space.

WeatherSTEM

A solar-powered WeatherSTEM unit providing up-to-the-minute weather data on temperature, wind speed, humidity, rainfall, barometric pressure and many other statistics was installed atop the roof of the Schwitzer Student Center in mid-July. The system also has a sensor in the ground to report soil moisture and ground temperature.