Ron Ekers is an astronomer who has made significant contributions to the development and use of radio telescopes. Amongst his numerous other scientific achievements, he pioneered the investigation of radio sources outside our galaxy and assisted with the first determination of our own galaxy’s magnetic field.
Ron’s observations have also shed light on numerous valuable astronomical phenomena, including the interaction of neutrinos with celestial bodies and the dynamics of the solar wind. A recognised leader in his field, he has been a long-time advocate of radio array telescopes, and was one of the principal supporters of the international Square Kilometre Array.
In addition to his membership of numerous learned societies, Ron is a former President of the International Astronomical Union. In 2003, he received Australia’s prestigious Centenary Medal, and two years later was awarded the Flinders Medal from the Australian Academy of Science. In 2014, he received the Grote Reber Medal for innovative contributions to radio astronomy.
Professional position
- CSIRO Fellow , CSIRO Astronomy & Space Science
Subject groups
- Astronomy and physics
Cosmic radiation, Astronomy, Cosmology, Gravitation
