Inside the University Observatory

Expanding universe. Expanding mind.

Think outside the world

If you are interested in solving large problems with big ideas, Astronomy has a degree program for you.

In our programs, you will expand your mind using tools that can be applied to multiple problems.

Astronomy News

940 Feet with Decker French. Two people walking in front of brick building and people sitting on benches having a conversation.
Professor Decker French joins LAS' 940 Feet Series
Astronomy professor Decker French recently joined the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences'...
Construction on the observatory dome.
National Park Service grant supports Observatory rehabilitation
The University of Illinois Observatory is undergoing renovations this summer that will bring back some historical features of the national landmark.The project is supported by a grant from the National Park Service through the Save America’s Treasures program, which funds the preservation of...
An observatory in front of a night sky in the desert.
CAPS, NCSA Celebrate Beginning of LSST Project
For astronomers, researchers and space lovers across the globe, the long wait is finally over.Following approval from the U.S. National Science Foundation review board, the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) began its mission to create a decade-long movie of the southern sky by capturing large...
The front entrance to Lincoln Hall.
Astronomy program selected for LAS PURSUE program to expand student access to research
PURSUE LAS is a program at the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences with the goal of expanding access to transformative undergraduate research experiences. It supports both established...
Students display posters at Astrofest 2026.
AstroFest emphasizes collaboration and finding your path in astronomy
Researchers, students, and faculty gathered Friday, April 24, for Illini AstroFest, a daylong event designed to showcase astrophysics research, spark collaboration, and build community among scientists at every stage of their careers.Held at the National Center for Supercomputing Applications, the...

Astronomy Events

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Student looking at the moon through a telescope

Real data, real experiences

The universe provides plenty of room for exploration. Astronomy classes make use of vast, modern datasets to give you hands-on experience with real data. 
University observatory at night

100 gifts for 100 years

Help celebrate our centennial by reaching for the stars.

In celebration of the department’s centennial, we’re asking for your help to replenish the department’s annual fund. Our goal is 100 gifts for 100 years.

Astronomy Courses
Illustration of observable universe

Introduction to Astronomy

Learn the basic concepts of modern astronomy, from the Solar System to the Big Bang.
heat map of universe

Introduction to Astrophysics

Survey of modern astronomy for students with background in physics.
Hubble image of universe

The Big Bang, Black Holes, and the End of the Universe

Studies the origin, evolution, and eventual fate of the universe, and the scientific tools used to study these issues.
Stephens quartet galaxy

Galaxies and the Universe

Explore elementary aspects of physical cosmology, including galaxies in our Local Group, starburst galaxies, and quasars.
Computer generated model

Computing in Astronomy

An introduction to the use of computers in astrophysics research.

Astronomy picture of the day

Astronomy picture of the day

Discover the cosmos with NASA.gov. Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

Learn about today's picture