For the first time in 350 years, the United Kingdom has appointed a woman as Astronomer Royal.
Professor Michele Dougherty, a world-leading space scientist, now holds the prestigious position, serving as the official astronomical adviser to King Charles III.
Remarkably, Prof Dougherty did not study science during her secondary education in South Africa. Her passion for space was sparked at the age of 10 when she viewed Jupiter and its moons through a telescope built with her father and sister.
That early fascination has since led her to the forefront of planetary research, including major involvement in a European Space Agency mission to explore Jupiter’s icy moons.
This historic appointment marks a major step for gender representation in the field of astronomy. Prof Dougherty hopes her new role will encourage more women and girls to pursue science, particularly in space and planetary research.
She is determined to raise public awareness of the importance of astronomy, both as a scientific discipline and for its contributions to the UK economy.
Currently, Prof Dougherty is leading work on a European mission to investigate the possibility of life on Jupiter’s moons, some of the most intriguing celestial bodies in the solar system. Her team is sending scientific instruments to gather critical data from these distant worlds.
Despite early challenges, including entering university without a science background, she quickly adapted and rose to become one of the UK’s most respected scientists. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and trailblazing leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Prof Dougherty’s appointment as Astronomer Royal is not only a personal achievement but also a powerful symbol of progress and inspiration for future generations of scientists in Britain and beyond.
