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Sixto A. González
Sixto A. Gonzalez at the Arecibo Observatory Visitor Center Saturday November 1st, 2003.jpg
Sixto A. González in 2003
Born 1965
Nationality Puerto Rican/American
Alma mater University of Puerto Rico at Humacao (BS)
Utah State University (Ph.D.)
Scientific career
Fields Scientist
Institutions SRI International
Doctoral advisor Bela G Fejer
Notes
González was honored by the United States House of Representatives.

Sixto A. González Edick (born 1965) is a scientist from Puerto Rico. He is well-known for being the Director of the Arecibo Observatory. This observatory was a very important place for studying space. It was located in Puerto Rico.

When Sixto A. González was the Director, the Arecibo Observatory had the world's largest single-dish radio telescope. This huge telescope helped scientists learn about planets and space. He was also the first Puerto Rican to lead the observatory.

Becoming a Scientist

Sixto A. González was born in Bayamón, Puerto Rico. He loved learning about how things work.

His Education Journey

In 1985, he started studying at the University of Puerto Rico at Humacao. He focused on Applied Physics and Electronics. He earned his first degree in 1988.

Later, he continued his studies at Utah State University. He earned his Ph.D. (a very advanced degree) in 1994.

Leading the Arecibo Observatory

After finishing his studies, González returned to Puerto Rico. He joined the Arecibo Observatory as a research associate. He was the first Puerto Rican scientist to work there.

Helping Students Learn Science

González cared a lot about education. He helped create a special program. This program gave high school and college students a chance to do real science research. They learned about Earth sciences firsthand.

Becoming the Director

In 2001, González became an assistant director. He was in charge of space and atmosphere studies. Then, on September 29, 2003, he made history. He became the first Puerto Rican Director of the Arecibo Observatory.

As Director, he was responsible for everything at the observatory. His job was to make sure the observatory stayed a top place for research. This included studies in astronomy, planets, and space science. He served as Director until September 15, 2006.

Later Work at Arecibo

In 2011, a group called SRI International took over managing the Arecibo Observatory. González continued to work there. He was the Director for Space and Atmospheric Sciences. He retired from this role later on.

Special Recognition

On October 30, 2003, Sixto A. González received a special honor. The United States House of Representatives publicly congratulated him. This was a big recognition for his achievements.

See also

  • Puerto Rican scientists and inventors
  • German immigration to Puerto Rico
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