Prof Yin-Zhe Ma recognised for groundbreaking contributions to cosmology on International Astronomy Day

ON THE global stage of celestial celebration, International Astronomy Day on October 4 has taken on a special significance, with South African cosmologist Prof Yin-Zhe Ma being honoured for his pioneering contributions to understanding the universe.

The National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) awarded Ma the esteemed TW Kambule-NSTF Researcher Award at the NSTF-South32 Awards, often referred to as the “Science Oscars” of South Africa.

This annual observance serves not just to ignite public curiosity about the cosmos, but also to forge a bridge between astronomy and society, highlighting the cultural and technological essence of exploring the skies.

Ma’s recognition during this global event encapsulates the significance of his achievements, which delve deep into some of the most profound questions of existence - from the universe's infancy to its elusive forces.

Known for his innovative approach that merges theoretical frameworks with observational data, Ma’s work has been pivotal in shedding light on galaxy formation, the hidden facets of the universe, and the enigmatic role of dark energy in shaping cosmic expansion. His publications, which exceed 130 peer-reviewed papers and accumulate over 29 000 citations, solidify his standing as a global figure in cosmology, the NSTF said.

As the head of the Astrophysics Group at Stellenbosch University and the holder of the Stellenbosch-Groningen Joint Research Chair in Computational Astronomy, Ma's influence extends beyond research. His leadership in international projects, including the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) and MeerKAT, positions South Africa at the forefront of cosmological exploration, reinforcing its pivotal role in global astronomy.

On the honour, Ma remarked, “This award is a wonderful recognition of my pure curiosity-driven research... enriching human experience and expanding people's horizons.”

His explorations unveiled the 'missing baryons' in the universe, confirming the scientific conjecture surrounding the cosmic makeup, most notably that 4.8% of our universe is composed of atoms - many of which are anticipated to be regenerated back into the cosmic ecosystem.

Beyond his research accolades, Ma is a dedicated mentor to a new generation of African scientists, invigorating local talent within the cosmological field. The foundation said his roles as a Fellow of the Royal Society of South Africa, Vice-President of the African Astronomical Society, and a member of the Academy of Science of South Africa highlight his commitment to expanding the African voice in global scientific discourse.

International Astronomy Day also serves as a reminder to turn our gaze skyward, fostering a sense of unity through the shared pursuit of knowledge. On this day, the NSTF encourages all South Africans to participate in astronomy and stargazing events, visit science centres and observatories, and inspire future generations through shared curiosity about the universe. It is a call to acknowledge that astronomy transcends borders, cultures, and languages, binding humanity through a collective wonder of the night sky.

The NSTF said Ma's groundbreaking research not only expands the horizons of cosmology but also strengthens South Africa’s contribution to global science, paving the way for innovation and discovery in the field for years to come.

“The research I am conducting opens new avenues to connect fundamental physics with astronomical data, and will leave new questions to the next generations," Ma said.