Born: 1969 (Casablanca, Morocco)
Biography:
Merieme Chadid, born on October 11, 1969, in Casablanca, is a renowned Moroccan-French astronomer, explorer, and astrophysicist. With a deep passion for the mysteries of the universe, she has dedicated her life to unraveling its secrets and expanding human knowledge.
Growing up in a modest family, Chadid was the third of seven children. At the age of 12, her fascination with astronomy ignited when her brother gifted her a book by Johannes Kepler. This serendipitous event sparked a lifelong curiosity that would shape her future.
Chadid’s educational journey began at the University of Hassan II Casablanca, where she obtained a master’s degree in Physics and Mathematics in 1992. She then pursued further studies at the University of Nice Sophia Antipolis, earning a Master of Advanced Studies in 1993. Three years later, she successfully defended her Ph.D. in Astronomy and Space from the Paul Sabatier University. Her groundbreaking research focused on detecting hypersonic shock waves in pulsating stars and unraveling their origins.
In addition to her Ph.D., Chadid also obtained the highest university qualification degree, Habilitation HDR, from the University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis. Her dedication to academic excellence led her to complete executive education programs at the prestigious John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.
Chadid’s professional career took a significant leap when she joined the Centre national de la recherche scientifique and later became affiliated with the European Southern Observatory. Her work involved the installation of The Very Large Telescope, the world’s largest telescope at the time, in the Atacama Desert of Chile. As a valued astronomer in the French public university system, Chadid has contributed significantly to the field.
In 2021, Chadid assumed the role of Vice President of the International Astronomical Union, Division G, Stars and Stellar Physics. She is also a respected member of the organization’s steering committee. Her expertise and leadership in the field have earned her international recognition and respect among her peers.
One of Chadid’s most notable achievements came in 2005 when she became the first Moroccan and the first female French astronomer to reach the heart of Antarctica. During this historic expedition, she planted the flags of both an Arab and an African nation, proudly representing her Moroccan heritage. The purpose of her journey was to establish a new observatory, a pioneering initiative that would extend the boundaries of astronomical research.
Chadid’s unwavering commitment to her work in extreme conditions has earned her admiration from colleagues and researchers alike. Antarctica, with its high altitude, frigid temperatures, vast emptiness, and inaccessible terrain, poses immense challenges. Yet, Chadid has triumphed over these obstacles, spearheading groundbreaking studies and setting an example for aspiring astronomers.
Through interviews, Chadid has likened the installation of the observatory in Antarctica to a space mission. The relatively thin layer of atmospheric turbulence surrounding the icy continent provides an exceptional opportunity to observe distant celestial objects. Despite enduring months of continuous darkness, researchers stationed in Antarctica benefit from unparalleled conditions for astronomical observations.
Merieme Chadid’s contributions to the field of astronomy extend beyond her scientific endeavors. As a Moroccan-French woman, she has broken barriers and shattered expectations, inspiring generations of aspiring scientists, particularly women, to pursue their passions despite societal constraints. Her dedication and achievements make her a trailblazer in women’s history, showing the world that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Awards:
– List of awards and recognitions received by Merieme Chadid go here.