Ex-SKA Australia Director recognised with Honorary IAU membership

Former SKA Project Director for the Australian Government, David Luchetti, was admitted as an Honorary Member of the International Astronomical Union on 27 August 2021.

This honour recognises David’s tireless work championing astronomy in Australia.

David has been a key advocate for Australian astronomy and has played a central role in facilitating Australia’s engagement with large scale international astronomy projects.

After six years as SKA Project Director, David recently moved positions with the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources that houses the Australian SKA Office to work on the Australian Government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, David hasn’t been able to escape the project totally. He is continuing to lead negotiations on an Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the Wajarri Yamatji for the location of the SKA-Low telescope in Western Australia. Previously, David represented Australia on the European Southern Observatory Council and has provided advice to the government on infrastructure needs for astronomy research in Australia.

Congratulations to David for this very well-deserved honour.

By the Australian SKA Office