Department of Astronomy and Physics

  • October 11, 2024

    This week, areas close to George Mason University are experiencing a stunning and unusual view of the aurora borealis—also called the northern lights, thanks to Solar Cycle 25. Solar activity is ramping up. Find out what that means from George Mason expert Peter Becker, professor of astrophysics and space sciences.

  • December 1, 2023

    Peter Becker, a professor in the Physics and Astronomy Department in George Mason University’s College of Science explains, talks how a predicted major increase in solar storms could be a prelude to an “internet apocalypse, and how a $14 million federal study he is leading with the Navy could provide better predictive capabilities and help us better understand exactly what’s at stake.