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Paul WildSwiss astronomer.
Date of Birth: 05.10.1925
Country:  Switzerland |
Content:
- Paul Wild: Swiss Astronomer and Discoverer
- Early Life and Education
- Astronomical Career
- Director of the University of Bern (1980-1991)
- Observatories
- Discoveries
- Comets
- Supernovae
- Awards and Recognition
Paul Wild: Swiss Astronomer and Discoverer
Paul Wild was a renowned Swiss astronomer and discoverer known for his significant contributions to the field of astronomy.
Early Life and Education
Wild was born in Wabern, Switzerland, in 1925. He attended the University of Zurich, where he studied mathematics.
Astronomical Career
University of BernIn 1955, Wild joined the University of Bern as an assistant astronomer. From 1971 onward, he held the position of lecturer, and in 1976, he became a full professor.
Director of the University of Bern (1980-1991)
From 1980 to 1991, Wild served as the Director of the University of Bern.
Observatories
Wild worked at the Zimmerwald Observatory and discovered numerous comets, asteroids, and supernovae.
Discoveries
AsteroidsBetween 1961 and 1994, Wild discovered 94 asteroids, including three near-Earth asteroids: (1866) Sisyphus, (2368) Beltrovata, and (3552) Don Quixote. He co-discovered one asteroid with Ivo Bauersima.
Comets
Wild discovered several short-period comets, notably 63P/Wild, 86P/Wild, and 116P/Wild. Among these, Comet Wild 2 became the target of NASA's Stardust mission, which collected dust samples from its surface.
Supernovae
Wild discovered 41 supernovae, of which eight were made in collaboration with other astronomers. His first discovery was SN 1954A, and his last was SN 1994M.
Awards and Recognition
Retirement and LegacyAfter retiring from the University of Bern in 1991, Wild served as president of the Fritz Zwicky Foundation from 1992 to 2005. In recognition of his contributions, asteroid (1941) Wild was named in his honor.
Paul Wild's legacy as a prolific astronomer continues to inspire generations of scientists and enthusiasts alike.
