As a theoretical physicist, he contributed strongly to magnetospheric and space physics since the 1960s, both in research and as a program leader at Boston College and NASA.
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Richard P. Von Herzen (1930–2016)
Richard P. Von Herzen, a pioneer of marine heat flow studies who helped validate plate tectonics and discover oceanic hydrothermal vents, passed away on 28 January 2016. He was 85.
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James Wynne Dungey (1923–2015)
Dungey, whose research laid the foundation for how the Sun's magnetic field connects to Earth's magnetic field, died on 9 May 2015. He was 92.
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Claudia Joan Alexander (1959–2015)
Alexander is remembered for her leading role in the Galileo and Rosetta missions and her efforts to encourage women scientists from underprivileged and underrepresented groups.
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Michael R. Raupach (1950–2015)
A pioneer in fields ranging from plant-atmosphere interactions to the carbon cycle, this Australian climate scientist transformed modern micrometeorology and cofounded the Global Carbon Project.
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F. Curtis Michel (1934–2015)
A veteran Air Force pilot who cofounded the Space Science Department at Rice University, Michel contributed to high-energy astrophysics, space plasma physics, and planetary science.
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Charles A. Barth, 1930–2014
Long-time director of the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics conducted pioneering studies of the atmospheres of Earth and other planets using ultraviolet spectroscopy.
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Samuel J. Bame Jr. (1924–2014)
The pioneering space physicist made fundamental discoveries about space plasmas, including first measurements of solar wind structures and magnetic reconnection at the Earth's magnetopause.
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Alberto Behar (1967–2015)
Devoted to exploration and discovery, this JPL scientist's inquisitive mind, inventiveness, and infectious enthusiasm inspired students, colleagues, and friends alike.
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James N. Pitts Jr. (1921–2014)
Pitts's contributions to understanding what drives atmospheric pollution and his dedication to teaching and mentoring made him a preeminent leader in atmospheric chemistry.