Rate My Professor Kevin MacKay

Kevin Mackay is an Instructor in the Department of Physics at the University of South Florida's College of Arts and Sciences. In addition to his instructional role, he is recognized as the Astronomy Professor of Instruction and serves as the Coordinator of Undergraduate Astronomy within the department. Mackay completed his doctoral studies at Queen's University in Belfast, Northern Ireland, earning a Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics in 2000. He previously received a B.Sc. in Physics with Astrophysics from the same university in 1996. Prior to his appointment at USF, he taught at a community college in Northern Ireland. By 2018, Mackay had amassed 25 years of teaching experience in higher education, underscoring his dedication to educating students in physics and astronomy.

Mackay's academic interests include Physics Education, Astrophysics, and Planetary Science. He contributes significantly to undergraduate learning by instructing key courses such as Descriptive Astronomy (AST2002), Stellar and Galactic Astronomy (AST2004), and Contemporary Thinking in Astronomy. His teaching approach emphasizes practical engagement, incorporating projects like planisphere constructions and eclipse observations. For instance, in 2017, Mackay arranged for students to observe an 80 percent partial solar eclipse from the USF Tampa campus on the first day of classes using solar glasses. In April 2024, he drove over 14 hours to Conway, Arkansas, to experience a total solar eclipse, capturing footage and images that he subsequently shared with his students. This followed a disappointing 1999 eclipse trip he led for students in Cornwall, England, marred by cloud cover. Mackay also advises the university's Astronomy and Astrophysics Club, coordinates opportunities for undergraduate research involvement, and is the primary contact for the Society of Physics Students chapter. Students seeking to participate in physics and astronomy activities are encouraged to reach out to him.