BIG BANG PHYSICIST AWARDED HIGHEST HONOR

Ralph Alpher, of Dudley Observatory, Receives National Medal of Science

SCHENECTADY, N.Y.— Recognition long overdue finally came on Wednesday, May 30, 2007, when President George W. Bush named local physicist Ralph Alpher a 2005 recipient of the National Medal of Science.

Alpher coauthored a paper in 1948 that formulated the scientific and mathematical foundation for the Big Bang theory of the origin of the universe. His model accurately predicted the distribution of the elements created in the universe and, as importantly, proposed that a microwave background permeates space as a remnant of the primordial fireball. Dr. Alpher’s tremendous insight was not fully appreciated until the accidental discovery of the predicted microwave background radiation by two radio astronomers in 1964. Credit for the Big Bang theory, including a Nobel Prize, has generally gone to these astronomers, bypassing Alpher and his colleagues.

The “father” of modern cosmology is finally getting the recognition he deserves. The National Medal of Science, honoring individuals for pioneering scientific research, is the nation’s highest science honor.

“Most people in the Capital District are not aware that one of the most important scientists of recent times resided in the region,” said Harvey Patashnick, president of Dudley Observatory. “The announcement by the White House is public recognition, long overdue, of his outstanding accomplishments. We are honored that one of the most significant individuals in the world of science has both led and maintained his association with Dudley Observatory. His intellect, passion and perseverance have been an inspiration to us all.”

Alpher came to the capital region in 1955 to work in research and development for General Electric in Niskayuna. He taught physics at Union College from 1986 to 2004 and served as administrator and Trustee of Schenectady’s Dudley Observatory from 1986 to the present.

“The National Medal of Science is a fitting tribute to Ralph Alpher, father of the Big Bang theory, who never received the Nobel Prize that should have been his,” said Sam Wait, Associate Dean of the School of Science and professor of chemistry at Rennselaer Polytechnic Institute. “He revolutionized our thinking about cosmology.”

“Finally some recognition of Ralph!” says Tom D’Andrea, former Dean of Academic Affairs at Union College, who appointed Alpher a Distinguished Research Professor at the college. “I take great pride in him; it’s great that he receives notice of his important work.”