Jonathan Tennyson (physicist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Jonathan Tennyson
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|---|---|
| Born |
Charles Jonathan Penrose Tennyson
11 May 1955 Hitchin, Hertfordshire, England
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| Nationality | British |
| Alma mater | University of Cambridge University of Sussex |
| Occupation | Physicist |
| Scientific career | |
| Institutions | University College London |
| Thesis | Studies in the ab initio calculation of molecular energies. (1980) |
Charles Jonathan Penrose Tennyson (born on May 11, 1955) is a British physicist. He is known for his important work in physics. He was a Professor of Physics at University College London (UCL) starting in 2005. He also led the Department of Physics and Astronomy at UCL from 2004 to 2011. Besides his university work, he is the Chief Scientist at Quantemol Ltd and chairs Blue Skies Space Ltd.
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Studying and Learning
Jonathan Tennyson went to Bootham School in York. After that, he continued his studies at two famous universities. He attended King's College, Cambridge and the University of Sussex.
Amazing Discoveries and Work
Professor Tennyson has written more than 700 scientific papers. These papers are about how we can use molecular spectroscopy to understand different areas of science. Spectroscopy is a way to study light and how it interacts with matter.
His research helps us learn about:
- Astrophysics: This is the study of stars, planets, and space.
- Atmospheric science: This looks at Earth's atmosphere and weather.
- Plasma physics: This explores superheated gases found in stars and fusion reactors.
He has also written articles for everyone to read, not just scientists. In 2005, he wrote a textbook called Astronomical Spectroscopy. This book helps students learn about the physics of light from space. He also leads a big project called ExoMol. This project creates huge lists of information about molecules. This information helps scientists study exoplanets, which are planets outside our solar system.
Awards and Special Recognitions
Jonathan Tennyson has received many important awards for his work.
- In 2007, he won the Ellis R. Lippincott Award. This award came from The Optical Society. He was also made a Fellow of this society.
- In 2009, he became a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS). This is a very high honor for scientists in the United Kingdom.
- In 2025, he received the Royal Astronomical Society’s Gold Medal. He earned this medal for his amazing work on exoplanets. His research has greatly improved our understanding of these distant worlds.
His Family
Jonathan Tennyson comes from a well-known family. His father was Hallam Tennyson, a radio producer. His grandfather was Sir Charles Tennyson. He is also the great-great-grandson of the famous poet, Alfred Lord Tennyson. Jonathan Tennyson is the father of actor Matthew Tennyson.
