The American Astronomical Society has chosen Columbia astronomer Caleb Scharf as the 2011 recipient of their Chambliss Award for excellence in academic writing, describing his new extrasolar planets and astrobiology textbook as “groundbreaking”.
The text, available for purchase on amazon.com, provides an advanced introduction to extrasolar planets and astrobiology. According to the books website, ”No other text currently available applies this level of mathematics and physics, while also providing an extensive grounding in key issues of chemistry, biology, and geophysics.“
According to the AAS website, the Chambliss Astronomical Writing Award is given to the author of an upper-level undergraduate or graduate textbook, which ”serve a vital role in the professional development“ of astronomers. Since its inception in 2006, seven authors or co-authors have received the Chambliss Award, which includes a $1000 cash prize and medal.
The news was announced today at the AAS Winter Conference, in Austin, TX. Congratulations Caleb!
Copyright 2011 Columbia University
