Is George Coyne Living or Dead?

About George Coyne

George Coyne: The Astronomer Who Looked Beyond the Stars

George Coyne was born on January 19, 1933, in Baltimore, Maryland. He grew up in a devout Catholic family and attended Loyola College, where he earned a degree in mathematics and physics. After completing his studies, Coyne joined the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits, and was ordained as a priest in 1965.

Coyne's passion for astronomy began during his time at the Vatican Observatory, where he worked as a researcher and eventually became the director. He spent over 40 years studying the stars and the universe, publishing numerous papers and books on the subject.

One of Coyne's most significant contributions to the field of astronomy was his work on the Hubble Space Telescope. He was a member of the team that helped design and build the telescope, and he also played a key role in its repair and maintenance.

Coyne was known for his outspoken views on the relationship between science and religion. He believed that the two were not mutually exclusive and that science could help us better understand our place in the universe. He also criticized those who used religion to deny scientific facts, such as the theory of evolution.

In addition to his work in astronomy, Coyne was also a respected theologian and philosopher. He wrote extensively on the intersection of science and religion, arguing that both were necessary for a complete understanding of the world.

Coyne passed away on February 11, 2020, at the age of 87. His legacy lives on through his contributions to astronomy and his advocacy for the integration of science and religion.

References:

- "George Coyne, Vatican Astronomer and Galileo Defender, Dies at 87." The New York Times, 2020.

- "George Coyne, S.J." Vatican Observatory Foundation.

- "George Coyne, SJ: Theologian, Scientist, and Advocate for the Integration of Science and Religion." The National Catholic Bioethics Center.