Michele Dougherty She was named Real Astronoma of the United Kingdombecoming the first woman to take office since her creation in 1675. Recognized for your work in planetary missionsthe scientist will assume the role after the retirement of Martin Reeswho held the position during 30 years.
The prestigious position created by Carlos II passes to Doughertyborn in South Africa in 1962. From a young age she felt fascinated by heaven thanks to His father’s telescopea passion that led her to become a reference for space physics in the United Kingdom.
Currently professor of Imperial College of Londonhe directed the Department of Physics between 2018 and 2024 and participated in some of the most important missions of the Space exploration. His work was key in research on Jupiter and Saturn magnetic fields.
Explorer of the Universe and Change Promoter
Dougherty was the main researcher of the magnetometer of the NASA Cassini Mission. Thanks to your analysis, it was discovered Water vaporwhich suggests potential conditions for life. He also collaborated in the mission Galileo and in the current JUICE MISSION OF ESAlaunched in 2023, which will reach the system of Jupiter in 2032.
“I am absolutely delighted to assume the important position of real astronomer,” Dougherty said. And he added: “As a child, I never imagined that I would end up working on planetary space or science missions, so I can’t believe that this position is assuming. ”
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A firm voice for equality in science
Dougherty is a constant defender of diversity in disciplines Stem. In 2022, he responded firmly to the statements of Katharine Birbalsinghwho affirmed that girls avoided physics for being “Difficult mathematics”. So, Dougherty said: “I am surprised that the senior executives of the United Kingdom continue to do Comments so stereotyped, without any scientific support. ”
“I am very proud of everything my students and staff achieve when they forge their careers, regardless of its genre “he said, and stressed the importance of creating inclusive scientific environments.
A appointment with echo in history
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Michele Dougherty is the fifteenth person to hold the position of real astronomer Since its foundation, and the first woman to do so. John Flamsteed was the first in 1675when Carlos II created the position with the aim of perfecting the Maritime Navigation.
“In this position, I hope to be able raise awareness about how exciting the astronomy and how important it isalong with their results, for our daily lives, ”said Dougherty, who continues in the footsteps of Catherine Heymansthe first Real astronomer of Scotland in 2021.
His work is recognized with the Hughes Medalthe decoration CBE and its inclusion as a member of the Royal Society. The teacher Give me Angela McLeanscientific advisor to the British government, summarized the general feeling when declaring: “This is a deserved recognition of his outstanding work and his constant commitment to the field of astronomy.”
Source: Ambito
