Houses mathematics, physics and astronomy departments
Full of natural light and space, the beautiful new Millikan Laboratory and renovated Andrew Science Hall are now open for faculty and summer research students at Pomona College, in Claremont.
At nearly 75,000-square-feet, Millikan 2.0 houses the mathematics, physics and astronomy departments and is full of innovative technology and features, all built to the highest green standards.
The new features include: Digital planetarium with a 360-degree immersive view of the night sky; an 80-100 seat colloquium; a large 50- seat classroom; six math classrooms, including three 30-seat classrooms and an applied math lab; outdoor physics labs;
Ideas and inspiration
Seven physics teaching labs, including a space for the College’s electron microscope; machine, wood and metal shops, and a two-story atrium and a garden courtyard.
The striking interior is composed of light wood, expansive windows with benches, tables, blackboards and whiteboards.
Professor of Mathematics Johanna Hardin said that the layout facilitates idea sharing.
“In terms of mathematical intellectual pursuits, we are excited about the myriad places for collaborative mathematical work. The students have a common space, which we expect to be used at all hours of the day and night,” said Hardin, who chairs the Math Department.
Teaching and research
Professor David Tanenbaum, chair of the Physics and Astronomy Department, said that was the building’s purpose: to enhance teaching and research.
“Research labs will be quiet and stable for high precision measurements using state of the art facilities including an advanced microscopy lab,” Tanenbaum said.
Kelli Rockwell ’17, a physics and computer science double major, called the environment inspiring.
“The new labs and workshops are unlike anything I have ever seen, and the surrounding courtyard is quite literally a playground for aspiring physicists like me,” Rockwell said.
For the community
The revamped facility is not just for the Pomona College community. The digital planetarium, its dome is visible from College Avenue and Sixth Street, offers opportunities for local schools and organizations to visit for special events, performances and hold astronomy classes.
Built to the most stringent of LEED requirements set by the U.S. Green Building Council, the new Millikan will College.
as part of the Seaver complex of science buildings. However, in recent years it was evident that Millikan was aging, with problems that included a cracked foundation and a structure that did not permit sustainability improvements.
An homage to history, the atom sculpture from the original Millikan has been preserved and is displayed at the front of the new building. Submitted by Sneha Abraham, Pomona College
