Esteemed astronomer Dr Allan Chapman passes away leaving a lasting legacy

Dr. Allan Chapman, a distinguished figure in the study of the history of astronomy, passed away last week, leaving a significant void in the scholarly community just months before his 80th birthday. Renowned for his extensive expertise and engaging spirit, Chapman’s impact on the field and his ability to inspire audiences were unparalleled.

In a poignant remembrance, the editorial team at Astronomy Now expressed their deep sorrow at the loss of their long-time contributor and consultant. Over the years, Chapman consistently provided the publication with high-quality articles, offering readers invaluable insights into the vast universe of astronomical history. Just weeks prior to his passing, he had shared an ambitious list of topics he was eager to explore, a testament to his unwavering passion for the subject and his commitment to education.

Chapman’s recent work included a detailed exploration of Tycho Brahe’s Uraniborg, recognized as Europe’s first observatory. His final piece, an enthusiastic examination of major observatories across North America, will be featured in an upcoming issue of Astronomy Now, along with a thorough tribute to his life and achievements, produced in conjunction with the Society for the History of Astronomy.

The entire team at Astronomy Now extends heartfelt condolences to his wife, Rachel, and all who held him in high regard. Dr. Allan Chapman will be greatly missed, both for his remarkable contributions to astronomy and for the warmth he brought to those who had the pleasure of knowing him.