A researcher from the Tucson-based Planetary Science Institute has recently been awarded the prestigious Eugene Shoemaker Distinguished Scientist Medal from NASA’s Solar System Exploration Research Virtual Institute. William Feldman, a senior scientist emeritus at PSI, was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the study of the moon and the planets.

Throughout his career, Feldman has made significant advancements in the search for water in our solar system. He played a crucial role in the discovery of water in the lunar polar regions and pioneered various spectroscopic techniques, including planetary neutron spectroscopy, X-ray spectroscopy, gamma-ray spectroscopy, and neutron spectroscopy.

Feldman has also been involved in numerous space missions, lending his expertise to projects such as ACE, Dawn, Lunar Prospector, Mariner 10, Mars Observer, Mars Odyssey, MESSENGER, and Pioneer 10 and 11.

In addition to his hands-on involvement in space missions, Feldman has authored or co-authored over 350 scientific papers. He has been recognized for his contributions by becoming a fellow of the American Geophysical Union and serving as the chairman of NASA’s Solar Probe Science Study Team.

Feldman’s dedication to his field has earned him many accolades, one of which is having an asteroid named after him. Fellow researchers named asteroid (6756) Williamfeldman in his honor.

Reflecting on his achievements, Feldman expressed his gratitude to his colleagues who have contributed to their collective scientific success. In a written statement, he stated, “I cannot find the proper words to describe the thanks I owe to all of my colleagues that I worked with over the years who made our science achievements possible. The Shoemaker medal that we have received is as much owned by them as by me.”

The Eugene Shoemaker Distinguished Scientist Medal is named after American geologist Eugene Shoemaker, one of the founders of the planetary science field. Shoemaker passed away in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking research.

The recognition of Feldman’s achievements marks a significant milestone not only for him but also for the Planetary Science Institute. It was a successful week for PSI researchers, as David Grinspoon, another senior scientist at PSI, was chosen to lead NASA’s study of the origin, evolution, and distribution of life in the universe.

The accomplishments of Feldman and Grinspoon highlight the ongoing commitment of the Planetary Science Institute to advancing our understanding of the solar system and beyond. Their contributions to scientific research will undoubtedly continue to inspire and drive future discoveries in space exploration.

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