Dr. Anthony Case is an astrophysicist who has been developing, testing, launching, and operating space-based sensors for use in orbit around the Earth, moon, sun, and Jupiter since 2005. His fascination with space began early in life while watching space shuttle launches and landings and stargazing with a small telescope.  After graduating with a degree in physics from University of Oregon, Tony turned his focus to space sciences, earning a PhD in astronomy from Boston University.  While working at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory as the deputy principal investigator for the plasma sensors on Parker Solar Probe, he helped develop the “Solar Probe Cup,” an instrument that flies through the solar corona closer than any human-made object, operating (while glowing red!) at temperatures in excess of 1700°C (3092°F). He is currently a research scientist at BWX Technologies working on the development of instrumentation and control systems for first-of-a-kind, micro-scale nuclear reactors for use in space.

Outside of astronomy, Tony enjoys cycling, sailing, skiing, paddleboarding, speed-cubing, and playing music (piano, trombone).  He loves to teach others about astronomy through lectures, speaking with schoolchildren, and other educational opportunities.  He was fortunate enough to see (with no clouds!) both of the recent total solar eclipses in the United States, and is always on a quest to see more.