Michael Smutko

Michael Smutko is a Teaching Professor and Director of Dearborn Observatory at Northwestern University. He earned his PhD in Physics from the University of Chicago in 1998. Since joining Northwestern in 2003, he has taught thousands of students and managed observatory operations. His research focuses on star formation, adaptive optics, and infrared astronomy, with collaborations on high-mass star formation studies. Smutko previously worked at the Adler Planetarium and designed telescope instruments, including deformable mirrors for adaptive optics systems.

Research Interests: Smutko's work bridges observational astronomy and instrumentation. He studies how massive stars form in galactic regions, using infrared techniques to analyze molecular outflows and protostellar environments. His expertise in adaptive optics enables ground-based telescopes to achieve space-like resolution at lower costs. He has contributed to projects like the design of deformable mirrors for the University of Chicago's adaptive optics system.

• Awards:
  • Charles Deering McCormick University Distinguished Lecturer (2010)
  • Arts & Sciences Alumni Teaching Award (2007)
  • Phi Beta Kappa (1989)
  • Twelve ASG Faculty Honor Roll elections

Advising & Outreach: While no formal advisees are listed, Smutko has engaged thousands of students through classroom and observatory events. He frequently appears in media, explaining astronomical discoveries. His role at Dearborn Observatory emphasizes public outreach, blending education with cutting-edge research.

Labs & Facilities: Director of operations at Dearborn Observatory, a historic research and education facility. His technical contributions include adaptive optics systems used in ground-based astronomy.