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Nick Lomb

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Honorary Professor, Centre for Astrophysics, University of Southern Queensland

I have had a variety of research directions over my career. During my PhD project on short period variable stars, I developed the theory of least squares frequency analysis for unequally spaced data. This is now a standard method of numerical analysis, called the Lomb or Lomb-Scargle Periodogram, that is used in astronomy and other fields.

Later at Sydney Observatory, the focus was on astrometry, that is, the positions and motions of stars and solar system objects. This work culminated in the publication of a star catalogue, of which I was co-author.

Then, when the Observatory came under the auspices of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, I became the Museum’s Curator of Astronomy. As such, I planned exhibitions and collected and looked after instruments and other items relating to astronomy. I was also involved with the media and with public education and outreach.

On leaving the Observatory and the Museum, my research emphasis became the history of Australian astronomy, with my latest book, with Toner Stevenson, 'Eclipse Chasers', to be released in March 2023. As well, I continue to prepare the annual Australasian Sky Guide for Powerhouse Publishing and maintain my interest in combatting light pollution.

Experience

  • 2022–present
    Honorary Professor, Centre for Astrophysics, University of Southen Queensland
  • 2013–2022
    Adjunct professor, Centre for Astrophysics, University of Southern Queensland
  • 1982–2013
    Curator of Astronomy, Sydney Observatory/Powerhouse Museum
  • 1979–1982
    Assistant Astronomer, Sydney Observatory

Education

  • 1975 
    University of Sydney, PhD/Astronomy
  • 1969 
    University of Sydney, Bachelor of Science

Publications

  • 2023
    Eclipse Chasers, Nick Lomb & Toner Stevenson
  • 2022
    Australasian Sky Guide, Nick Lomb
  • 2011
    Transit of Venus: 1631 to the present, Nick Lomb
  • 2004
    Transit of Venus: the scientific event that led Captain Cook to Australia, Nick Lomb
  • 2001
    Observer and Observed: A pictorial history of Sydney Observatory and Observatory Hill, Charles Pickett & Nick Lomb
  • 1986
    Astronomy for the Southern Sky, Nick Lomb & Trevor Wilson

Professional Memberships

  • Astronomical Society of Australia
  • Australian Institute of Physics
  • Royal Society of NSW
  • Royal Society of Victoria