Major medal for Reading scientist who 'took' millions to space through animation
The award recognises the Dr's work communicating planetary science to the public, with his work viewed 400 million times globally
A planetary scientist from the University of Reading has won an international award for his work in community space science.
Dr James O’Donoghue has been awarded the 2026 Carl Sagan medal by the American Astronomical Society (AAS) for his outstanding communication of planetary science to the public.
The prize acknowledges the work of active planetary scientists who bring the wonders of the galaxy to a broader audience.
Dr O’Donoghue's outreach includes creating nearly 100 educational animations on space science, which have been viewed more than 400 million times globally.
These animations are used in educational settings such as schools, university classrooms, museum exhibits, and planetarium shows.
His contributions also extend to international TV and radio interviews for outlets like BBC and PBS Nova, as well as organising stargazing events at the University of Reading.
The AAS praised Dr O’Donoghue for his creativity and effectiveness in communicating scientific topics, additionally recognising him as a leader in studying the upper atmospheres of giant planets.
The Carl Sagan medal, named after the famed astronomer, honours scientists who excel in public outreach.
Dr O’Donoghue said he believes in the importance of spreading scientific knowledge widely: "Space is one of the few subjects that almost everyone is curious about, and that curiosity is worth taking seriously. When people understand what's happening on other planets, it changes how they see our own world. Sharing that science as widely and accessibly as possible is just as important as doing it in the first place."