RIP Pioneering Astronomer Vera Rubin: 88

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the legacy of Vera Rubin, a pioneering astronomer known for her work on dark matter and her advocacy for women in the sciences, following her passing at the age of 88. The conversation touches on her contributions to astronomy, the recognition of her work, and the broader implications of awards like the Nobel Prize.

Discussion Character

  • Meta-discussion
  • Historical

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express that Vera Rubin was a strong candidate for the Nobel Prize, highlighting her significant contributions to the understanding of dark matter.
  • Others note that Rubin's work, while impactful, may not have been recognized by prestigious awards, suggesting that many great contributions go unacknowledged.
  • One participant questions whether Rubin deserved a Nobel Prize, arguing that she primarily confirmed existing conclusions made by another scientist, Zwicky.
  • Several posts include links to articles and resources about Rubin's work and her influence in the field of astronomy.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on Rubin's significance as a scientist and advocate, but there is disagreement regarding the implications of her not receiving a Nobel Prize and whether her contributions warrant such recognition.

Contextual Notes

Some claims about Rubin's contributions and the nature of her work are presented with varying degrees of certainty, and the discussion reflects differing opinions on the value of awards in recognizing scientific achievement.

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Dark matter scientist and advocate of women in the sciences. RIP
 
Thought I was going to have to post this, but you beat me by 14 minutes.
 
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?
 
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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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
 

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