RIP Pioneering Astronomer Vera Rubin: 88

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In summary, pioneering astronomer and dark matter scientist, Vera Rubin, has passed away at the age of 88. Along with Deborah Jin, she was a strong candidate for the Nobel Prize in physics, representing a long overdue recognition of women in the sciences. Despite not receiving a Nobel, Rubin's groundbreaking work confirmed the existence of dark matter, a major contribution to our understanding of the universe.
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Dark matter scientist and advocate of women in the sciences. RIP
 
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Thought I was going to have to post this, but you beat me by 14 minutes.
 
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Thanks ZapperZ. One thought when I read your post, though I agree that Vera Rubin was a great scientist, is that perhaps the lesson one should learn is that there is plenty of great work not recognized by prizes, so should one really regret that Rubin did not receive a Nobel?

While we're on the subject - could one argue that Rubin did not deserve a Nobel, since she merely confirmed Zwicky's conclusions?
 
  • #6
https://www.aip.org/remembering-vera-rubin (has links to Physics Today articles by Vera Rubin - free until 1/27/2017)

Vera Rubin in "The Astronomers"... start at 8m40s


Vera Rubin in "The Ring of Truth"... start at 37m30s
 
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  • #7
The 1994 Karl G. Jansky Lecture : What's the Matter in the Universe
Vera C. Rubin
02000000000036.jpe

http://library.nrao.edu/jansky3.shtml [navigate to her lecture to view the stream in your browser.]

The video links to http://library.nrao.edu/public/misc/videos/02000000000036.flv
 

Related to RIP Pioneering Astronomer Vera Rubin: 88

1. Who was Vera Rubin?

Vera Rubin was a groundbreaking American astronomer who made significant contributions to our understanding of dark matter and galaxy rotation.

2. What was Vera Rubin's most significant discovery?

Vera Rubin's most significant discovery was the evidence of dark matter in galaxies, which she observed through her studies of galaxy rotation curves.

3. How did Vera Rubin become interested in astronomy?

Vera Rubin's father was an electrical engineer and her mother was an amateur astronomer, which sparked her interest in the field. She also had a passion for mathematics and science from a young age.

4. What obstacles did Vera Rubin face as a woman in the field of astronomy?

Vera Rubin faced many obstacles as a woman in the field of astronomy, including being denied access to the observatory at Princeton University and being excluded from many research opportunities and collaborations.

5. What impact did Vera Rubin have on the field of astronomy?

Vera Rubin's work greatly influenced our understanding of the universe and the role of dark matter in shaping galaxy structures. She also paved the way for more women to pursue careers in science and inspired many young scientists with her passion and determination.

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