Born: 1921 (Tehran, Iran)
Died: 2011 (Tehran, Iran)
Biography:
Alenush Terian was an Iranian-Armenian astronomer and physicist who is often referred to as the Mother of Modern Iranian Astronomy. She was born on November 9, 1921, into an Armenian family in Tehran, Iran. Her father, Arto Terian, was a renowned stage director, poet, and translator, known by his pen name Arizad, which means Born to Aryan. He had translated the epic Persian poem Shahnameh into Armenian. Alenush’s mother, Varto Terian, was a notable stage actress and director.
Alenush Terian displayed an early interest in science and pursued her education in the field. In 1947, she graduated from the Science Department of the University of Tehran. She started her career in the physics laboratory at the same university and quickly rose to become the chief of laboratory operations in the same year.
Despite her outstanding academic achievements, Terian faced opposition when she sought a scholarship to study in France. A prominent Iranian scientist, Dr. Hesabi, did not approve of her pursuing further studies, stating that it was already enough for a woman to have studied so much. Undeterred, Terian received financial support from her father and left Iran to study in France.
In 1956, she obtained her doctorate in atmospheric physics from Sorbonne University. With her newfound expertise, Terian returned to Iran and became an assistant professor in thermodynamics at the University of Tehran. She also had the opportunity to work in solar physics in West Germany through a scholarship awarded by the German government to her university.
Terian made significant contributions to the field of physics in Iran. In 1964, she became the first female professor of physics in the country. Two years later, she joined the Geophysics Committee of the University of Tehran. In 1969, Terian was elected as the chief of solar physics studies at the university and played a vital role in establishing the solar observatory.
Throughout her career, Terian focused on studying solar physics and made notable advancements in the field. Her dedication and expertise earned her recognition and respect both nationally and internationally.
In 1979, Terian retired from her academic position, ending a distinguished career that spanned several decades. She remained active in the scientific community and was highly regarded for her contributions to the advancement of astronomy and physics in Iran.
Alenush Terian’s 90th birthday celebration in Tehran was a testament to her impact and influence. The event was attended by numerous Iranian parliamentarians and over 100 Iranian Armenians, highlighting the lasting legacy she left behind.
Terian passed away on March 4, 2011, in Tehran, at the age of 90. Her remarkable accomplishments as an astronomer and physicist, as well as her unwavering dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, have solidified her place in history as a trailblazer and a role model for generations to come.