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.
Tribute
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.