David Mitchell Professor, Cal Poly Physics Department
A specialist in observational astronomy, professor David Mitchell, 31, is working to establish a minor in the subject at Cal Poly. He is also working on funding to build a new observatory in the area to benefit both students and the public.
“There’s not really a good research observatory nearby,” said Mitchell, who collects data at the Lick Observatory in San Jose.
With collaborators in Germany, he has uncovered seven new planets in this galaxy.
“He has always had a passion for learning,” said his wife, Kristyn, who teaches elementary school. Mitchell visits elementary classrooms to speak on astronomy.
“Ten-year-olds have some awesome questions,” he said. “They can ask all their crazy questions and get real answers.”
Originally from Lynnwood, Wash., he has a doctorate in physics from the University of California, San Diego. He works with Cal Poly resident assistants and organizes social gatherings for faculty in the college. Three-year residents of Los Osos, the Mitchells support San Luis First United Methodist’s college ministry and hope to adopt a child.
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