2024 Thomson Medal: Tuning into space research through radio astronomy

In 2004, Sergei established the Institute of Radio Astronomy and Space Research at Auckland University of Technology.

In 2005, Sergei founded the Warkworth Radio Astronomy Observatory, a major asset for New Zealand science, which complements the facilities for optical astronomy provided by the University of Canterbury at Mt John.

As Director of the Observatory until 2023, Sergei was instrumental in securing external grants and in-kind contributions totalling $4 million, as well as acquiring a telecommunications antenna from Spark which was converted into a radio telescope, with major flow-on benefits for astronomy and astrophysics.

Under Sergei's leadership, the Observatory's 12- and 30-metre radio telescopes have conducted 24,000 hours of observations, which generated data for global mapping, positioning, and space navigation, including the maintenance of GPS systems. 

The Observatory contributes to research on earth science, astronomy, and physics, by supporting the International Celestial and Terrestrial Reference Frame, Very Long Baseline Interferometry studies, and space satellite communications, in collaboration with many international space agencies.

The development of the Warkworth observatory in 2005 was particularly timely because Australia was developing a bid to host the very ambitious international Square Kilometre Array project. New Zealand’s geographic position and favourable conditions for radio astronomy mean that this country can make a distinctive contribution to the Square Kilometre Array, and Sergei ensured our involvement in this high-performance computing project from the outset. 

Sergei's efforts ensured the observatory's survival in 2022, preserving its pivotal role in scientific research and education.

Sergei has fostered a culture of research excellence, and active collaborations with dozens of research institutes and observatories worldwide, enhancing the reputation of Aotearoa New Zealand in radio astronomy and space research.

Sergei's efforts have also enriched the future of the aerospace sector in Aotearoa New Zealand through science education. He established the Astronomy and Space Science as subjects in the country's university sector, providing students with invaluable hands-on learning experiences at the observatory.

In awarding this medal, the selection committee commended Sergei’s visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and unparalleled contributions to science and education. 

Sergei has been a member of MBIE’s Radio Spectrum Management group since 2006, a senior Member of the International Union of Radio Science since 2006, a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society (London) since 1996, and has played a major role in the Royal Astronomical Society of New Zealand since 2008.

“On receiving this medal, Sergei said he was “deeply honoured” to receive this recognition from the Society.

“This achievement is the result of collaborative effort and the immense support I’ve received over the years from my university, the New Zealand government, and colleagues in radio astronomy and space geodesy both here and worldwide.

“I would especially like to acknowledge late Sir Ian Axford, whose vision and unwavering support were instrumental in advancing radio astronomy for New Zealand and beyond.

“The world-class radio telescope facilities we’ve developed are a testament to the dedication and unique expertise of New Zealand’s scientists and engineers—Kiwi ingenuity—complemented by invaluable contributions from international colleagues.

“I am also grateful for the opportunity to foster university education in Astronomy and Space Science here in New Zealand, with thanks to the University of Canterbury for their longstanding leadership in this field and their support of our programmes at AUT." 

Thomson Medal:
The Thomson Medal is for outstanding contributions to the organisation, support, and application of science, technology, or the humanities.

Citation:
To Sergei Gulyaev for his leadership and contributions to radio astronomy, science education, and international collaboration.