May 1
PHYS 123 "What do Physicists Do?": Week 2
Fri, May 1, 2026
• 3:30pm
- 4:30pm (1h) • AND 036
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is pleased to announce this year’s Physics 123 Line-up. “What Physicists Do” is our annual series of five lectures by invited speakers, many of whom are Carleton Physics alumni. It is intended to introduce students to a broad range of real-world physics and to give some perspective on the kinds of work done by people with a physics background. The course is open to all interested students; those considering a major in physics are particularly encouraged to enroll. Students who are unable to enroll are encouraged to attend the talks that fit their schedule.
The presentations are in AND 036 on Fridays during 6th period (3:30-4:30pm). The only requirement for registered students to receive credit, beyond attending five talks, is to read an assigned article beforehand and then to submit a short (one page) typed essay afterwards commenting on both the talk and the reading. Non-registered students, faculty, and staff are welcome to attend any and all talks that fit your schedule! Speakers will be available for informal discussions over refreshments afterward. Questions: Arjendu Pattanayak, Olin 237, arjendu@carleton.edu
May 1st Faith Vowler, Outreach Coordinator for the Hubble Space Telescope
“Talking About Space: Communications with a Science Background”
As an undergraduate in astronomy and space science, Faith Vowler came to realize that a career in academia and research wasn’t the right fit for her. Through student groups and working in a planetarium, she soon discovered a passion for outreach and informal education, and sharing the amazing discoveries that scientists have made about the universe with the enthusiastic public. In this lecture, Faith will share her educational and career path from the University of Michigan to NASA, talk about the work she does as an Outreach Coordinator for the Hubble Space Telescope, and discuss the many ways that a career in public outreach provides exciting and fulfilling work.
Event Contact: arjendu@carleton.edu