Richard Easther

I work in astrophysics and cosmology and teach at the University of Auckland where I am a professor and Head of Department in physics.  I enjoy writing about topics that catch my eye in my own field and the often unexpected places science shows up in our lives; from sand castles to public policy. 

For contact details see my University of Auckland profile page; I am happy to respond to media queries, speaking invitations and welcome enquiries from students at any level. 

 

Needless to say, the opinions expressed here are my own, and not necessarily those of my employer.

about me on the blog

Featured
How to Talk to Kids With Dreams
How to Talk to Kids With Dreams

If you're a teacher, what's your ambition? It's got to be better to watch your students chase their dreams than, when they come to tell the story of their success, be remembered as the person who said they couldn't do it.

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Bike Bridges of Auckland
Bike Bridges of Auckland

Unlike almost any other form of transport, regular cycling leaves you fitter and healthier than sitting in a car, or a bus or a train. Not only that, Auckland's best cycle paths run through parks and incorporate a series of stunning bridges, so you are likely to arrive at work with a smile on your face.

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Your Mileage May Vary
Your Mileage May Vary

Auckland's 2017 Bike Challenge winds up today; February may be the shortest month, but it is prime cycling season in Auckland, with decent weather and long evenings.

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Blog-Foo
Blog-Foo

SciFoo is -- in part -- a celebration of science, but problems within science and problems science has made for the world were key themes of SciFoo, turning it into something more than a mutual admiration session. But scientists like to fix problems, and for me that was the most rewarding aspect of the conference -- after SciFoo, it is easy to believe that the world can be a better place.  Thanks.

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Beatrice's Biography
Beatrice's Biography

Astrophysicist Beatrice Tinsley (1941-1981) was once a leading candidate for the "Most Important New Zealand Scientist You've Never Heard Of Award", but has been largely eliminated from consideration by a stage play, having a mountain named after her, and a full-length biography.

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Time Capsule
Time Capsule

A year ago, my family and I moved home to New Zealand after 15 years in the United States.  We'd left New Zealand with suitcases, but returned with a 40-foot shipping container.A year later we are just getting to the bottom of the last of the boxes, where I discovered a 2001 copy of Pulp  -- a glossy New Zealand "fashion and lifestyle" magazine -- with me in it.

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