Diane Turnshek

Diane Turnshek is a Lecturer in the Department of Physics at Carnegie Mellon University and affiliated with the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Pittsburgh. She holds an M.S. in Astronomy from the University of Arizona (1981) and a B.Sc. in Astronomy from Villanova University (1977). Her academic roles include Adjunct Faculty at St. Vincent College (2003–11) and Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Pittsburgh (2001–).

• Education:
  • M.S. in Astronomy, University of Arizona (1981)
  • B.Sc. in Astronomy, Villanova University (1977)

Turnshek’s research focuses on light pollution, dark sky conservation, and astrophysics. She co-instructs CMU’s Skyglow summer research class, which investigates urban light pollution using drones, aircraft, satellites, and the International Space Station. Her work bridges scientific measurement with public outreach, including organizing conferences and curating space art galleries.

Recent publications highlight her contributions to remote sensing of night lights (2022), stellar spectra atlases (1985), and gravitational lensing studies (1980). Her research trends emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges.

• Scientific Awards:
  • International Dark Sky Association’s Defender Award

Turnshek mentors students through programs like Seton Hill’s MFA Writing Popular Fiction (2011–20) and co-organizes international conferences, including the 10th Artificial Light at Night Conference (2025). She also secures grants for projects such as the Metro21-funded 'Artificial Light Survey of Nighttime Pittsburgh' (2019).