American Astronomical Society Honors

Posted byAaron GronstalSourceDPS

Prominent individuals in the astrobiology community have been honored by the Division of Planetary Sciences (DPS) of the American Astronomical Society.

The 2022 Harold Masursky Award for meritorious service to planetary science has been given to James Green, who spent twelve years leading NASA’s Planetary Science Division and four years as NASA’s Chief Scientist. During his time at NASA, Green was an avid supporter of astrobiology research and participated in numerous activities dedicated to NASA’s efforts to understand life’s potential in the Universe.

From the DPS:
The Harold Masursky Award recognizes and honors individuals who have rendered outstanding service to planetary science and exploration through – but not limited to – engineering, managerial, programmatic, editorial, or public service activities.

James L. Green speaking at the “Seeking Signs of Life” Symposium, celebrating 50 Years of Exobiology and Astrobiology at NASA, Thursday, Oct. 14, 2010, at the Lockheed Martin Global Vision Center in Arlington, Va.

James L. Green, former NASA Chief Scientist, in 2010 speaking at the “Seeking Signs of Life” Symposium, celebrating 50 Years of Exobiology and Astrobiology at NASA.Image credit: NASA HQ.

Caleb Scharf, Director of Astrobiology at Columbia University, has received the 2022 Sagan Medal for excellence in public communication. Scharf is a member of the “Rocky Planet Habitability” team of NExSS (Nexus for Exoplanet System Science), a NASA Research Coordination Network (RCN). He is also a prominent author and writer who has helped broaden public awareness of astrobiology and other related fields.

From the DPS:
The Carl Sagan Medal (“Sagan Medal”) recognizes and honors outstanding communication by an active planetary scientist to the general public. It is to be awarded to scientists whose efforts have significantly contributed to a public understanding of, and enthusiasm for, planetary science.

The 2022 Sagan Medal for excellence in public communication has been awarded to Dr. Caleb Scharf of Columbia University.Image credit: DPS.

The full list of this years awardees from the DPS is can be found at:
https://dps.aas.org/prizes/2022