西湖大学创立天文系！著名天体物理学家毛淑德任系主任，所有教授都将站上讲台授课

Core Points - Westlake University has established its Astronomy Department, with Professor Mao Shude as the first department head, focusing on the exploration of cosmic mysteries and enhancing human understanding of the universe [1][3] - The Astronomy Department will emphasize a "small but refined" approach, concentrating on exoplanets, astrobiology, galaxy cosmology, artificial intelligence in astrophysics, time-domain astronomy, theoretical astrophysics, and astronomical technology [3] - The department plans to start doctoral student recruitment in 2026, relying on the physics discipline, and all professors, including Mao Shude, will teach courses [3][4] Group 1 - Professor Mao Shude, a renowned astrophysicist, has a strong academic background, including a PhD from Princeton University and extensive research experience in exoplanet discovery and galaxy dynamics [1][3] - The department aims to foster international collaboration with research teams from Europe, Asia, and globally, focusing on astronomical observation, data sharing, and talent cultivation [3] - A small astronomical observatory equipped with an 80 cm telescope is under construction at the new YunGu campus, expected to be operational after the Spring Festival in 2026 [3][4] Group 2 - This fall semester, Professor Mao has already begun teaching a general education course titled "Tianwen" to 27 undergraduate students from various disciplines [4] - The international advisory committee for the Astronomy Department includes notable figures such as Brian Schmidt, a Nobel laureate, and other distinguished professors from leading universities [4] - Westlake University's President, Shi Yigong, emphasized that the establishment of the Astronomy Department will enhance the university's scientific framework and promote interdisciplinary integration [6]