Born: 1912 (Grafton, New South Wales)
Died: 1981
Biography:
Ruby Violet Payne-Scott was an Australian pioneer in radiophysics and radio astronomy. Born on May 28, 1912, in Grafton, New South Wales, she was the daughter of Cyril Payne-Scott and Amy nee Neale. Ruby later moved to Sydney to live with her aunt and attended Penrith Public Primary School from 1921 to 1924. She then went on to Cleveland-Street Girls’ High School from 1925 to 1926 before completing her secondary schooling at Sydney Girls High School. Ruby excelled academically and earned honours in mathematics and botany in her school leaving certificate. She received two scholarships to pursue tertiary education at the University of Sydney, where she studied physics, chemistry, mathematics, and botany.
At the University of Sydney, Ruby Payne-Scott became the third woman to graduate in physics, earning her BSc degree in 1933. She went on to complete her MSc in physics in 1936 and obtained a Diploma of Education in 1938. During her time at the university, she conducted research with William H. Love at the Cancer Research Laboratory. Together, they discovered that the Earth’s magnetic field had little or no effect on the vital processes of living beings. This finding was groundbreaking and challenged the widely held belief that the Earth’s magnetic field had significant effects on human beings.
After completing her cancer research, Payne-Scott worked as a secondary school teacher at St Peter’s Woodlands Grammar School from 1938 to 1939. However, her passion for science led her to join AWA, a prominent electronics manufacturer and operator of two-way radio communications systems in Australia. Initially hired as a librarian, she quickly expanded her responsibilities and became the leader of the measurements laboratory, conducting electrical engineering research. However, she grew dissatisfied with the research environment at AWA and left in August 1941.
In August 1941, Ruby Payne-Scott joined the Radiophysics Laboratory of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), where she made significant contributions to radar technology and radio astronomy. During World War II, she was involved in top-secret work related to radar technology, which played a crucial role in the defense of Australia. Payne-Scott’s expertise and dedication earned her a reputation for her exceptional problem-solving skills and innovative thinking.
One of her most significant contributions was her work on antenna design and development. She played a key role in developing radar systems for the Australian Army during the war, helping to improve their detection capabilities. After the war, Payne-Scott continued her research in radio astronomy and made groundbreaking discoveries.
Payne-Scott’s work in radio astronomy focused on solar observations. She was instrumental in developing and implementing radio telescopes specifically designed to study the Sun. Her work contributed to a better understanding of solar flares, Sun-Earth interactions, and the nature of the Sun’s magnetic field. Her research laid the foundation for future advancements in the field of radio astronomy.
Throughout her career, Ruby Payne-Scott faced numerous challenges and obstacles. As a woman in a male-dominated field, she often encountered gender discrimination and bias. Despite these obstacles, she persevered and continued to make significant contributions to the field of radio physics and astronomy.
Ruby Payne-Scott’s achievements and contributions to science have left a lasting impact on society. Her groundbreaking research and discoveries have advanced our knowledge of the universe and paved the way for future scientists. As one of the pioneers in radio astronomy and radio physics, her work has inspired countless individuals, particularly women, to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Awards:
– Ruby Payne-Scott received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career. However, due to the limited information available, specific details of these awards are not provided. Nonetheless, her contributions to science and her pioneering work in radiophysics and radio astronomy earned her recognition and respect within the scientific community.