Tony, a theoretical plasma physicist whose work has gone on to pave new research fields in both astrophysical and laboratory plasmas, was awarded the Rumford Medal 2024 for his 'Seminal contributions to theoretical developments of cosmic ray acceleration and origins.'
Cosmic rays are the highest energy particles in the universe, travelling close to the speed of light. However, until recently, it was unclear what caused these particles to reach such speeds. Tony Bell was one of several independent researchers in the late 1970's who theorised that cosmic rays were being accelerated by shock waves from massive interstellar explosions, such as supernovae.
Since that foundational work, it has been shown that Shock Acceleration (as it is now known) is involved in many cosmic interactions, and the theory continues to help us to understand some of the universe's oldest and deepest phenomena. The underlying plasma physics is seen in experiments all over the globe, for example, in high-power lasers.
Professor Tony Bell said, “I am deeply honoured by this recognition of my contribution to high energy astrophysics over a period of fifty years. I am grateful to the many young researchers who have walked this path with me and made it such an enjoyable experience. I particularly thank Peter Scheuer and Malcolm Haines, my late mentors, who in my early career opened my eyes to physics as a creative endeavour."
Tony first joined the CLF as a staff scientist in 1979 after obtaining an MA and PhD from the University of Cambridge. Throughout his long and fruitful career, he has also held positions at RAL, a professorship at Imperial College London, and a Senior Research Fellowship at the University of Oxford. He was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2017.
Furthermore, he has received awards from the Institute of Physics (2014), the Royal Astronomical Society (2016), the European Physical Society (2018) and the International Cosmic Ray Conference (2021), and now the Royal Society (2024). All these were in recognition of his contribution to the astronomical field, with the additional recognition of his work on laser-plasma from the Institute of Physics and the European Physical Society.
Tony has maintained a close working relationship with the CLF, where his theoretical work ties in closely with the capabilities of the CLF's Gemini Laser and the up-and-coming Vulcan 20-20 and EPAC lasers.
To read Tony's award announcement, click here.
To read the University of Oxford's article on Tony's award, click here.
