Researchers in the Department have discovered that a magnetic cloud from a solar eruption expanded much more rapidly than expected as it traveled toward Earth. Their findings could help scientists better predict space weather and understand how solar storms may impact satellites, navigation systems, and power grids.

Shirsh Lata Soni, a postdoctoral research fellow in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Iowa, led the team that pieced the event together. Soni studies solar outbursts and saw the lineup as a rare gift.

A new study led by University of Iowa Physics & Astronomy researcher Shirsh Lata Soni found that a solar storm in 2021 expanded much faster than scientists expected as it traveled toward Earth. Using rare observations from two spacecraft aligned along the Sun-Earth path, the team discovered the storm grew about 21% in size and became significantly hotter over a short distance, challenging existing models and highlighting the need for improved space weather forecasting. 

The University of Iowa has been selected to join a National Science Foundation-funded consortium advancing next-generation quantum sensing, with Professor Michael Flatté leading Iowa's work. His team will help design materials and devices aimed at demonstrating the real-world advantages of quantum technologies.

University of Iowa researchers using NASA’s TRACERS mission have taken a closer look at how energy from the sun travels to Earth. By tracking fast-moving electrons, they were able to better understand how solar energy enters Earth’s atmosphere and interacts with its magnetic field. These new insights could help improve our understanding of space weather and its effects on Earth.

Assistant Professor Dustin Swarm helped lead a first-of-its-kind study using a NASA telescope to better understand how white dwarfs pull in and interact with matter from nearby stars. By measuring X-ray polarization for the first time in this type of system, the team uncovered new details that could improve how scientists study stellar explosions and extreme environments.

Graduate research assistant Lillian Daneshmand has won a NASA fellowship to investigate pulsating auroras and how they affect Earth's atmosphere and its climate.

A new University of Iowa study offers exciting insights into Mars' magnetotail.

Here’s how Iowa is growing its aerospace and defense industry through talent, research and investment.

Several Department of Physics and Astronomy students were among the University of Iowa degree candidates participating in the Spring 2026 Commencement ceremonies held May 14-16.