This past November, the University of Maryland’s Astronomy Department hosted a special reception to honor Joe DeMartini, recipient of the 2024 Schweickart Prize. The event brought together students, researchers, and astronomy enthusiasts for an engaging evening of discussion and collaboration.
Joe, who is advised by Astronomy Professor Dr. Derek Richardson, was selected for his innovative approach to enhance the discovery of near-Earth objects (NEOs) that have the potential to impact our planet. His SUnward NEO Surveillance and Early Twilight detection (SUNSET) Collaboration proposal proposes a coordinated effort to detect and study near-Earth objects approaching from the direction of the Sun—an especially hard-to-observe and dangerous group—using twilight observations from the Rubin Observatory and a global network of smaller telescopes. The proposal also outlines plans to integrate advanced orbit-determination software and eventually develop a space-based early warning system to improve planetary defense.
"Joe exemplifies all the great qualities we foster in our graduate students, including creativity, independence, and responsibility," Dr. Richardson said. "I am proud of Joe’s accomplishments and look forward to his future contributions to planetary science."
In July 2025, Joe successfully defended his Ph.D., and almost immediately landed what he calls his dream opportunity. He is now headed to Helsinki, Finland, to join Dr. Mikael Granvik’s world-class research group, where he will help shape the next generation of asteroid population models.
"I'm very grateful to the B612 Foundation for recognizing Joe's innovative thinking on identifying asteroids that might otherwise escape notice with the award of the Schweickart Prize," said Dr. Andrew Harris, chair of UMD's Department of Astronomy. "The honor is further confirmation that Joe's research provides key insights into approaches to planetary defense."
The University of Maryland offers undergraduate and graduate programs in astronomy and planetary science, including a planetary science minor and research opportunities focused on asteroids, comets, and planetary dynamics. Learn more by visiting https://cmns.umd.edu/.