Richard Easther

Richard Easther is a theoretical cosmologist and Professor of Physics (Head of Department) at the University of Auckland. He blogs at Excursionset.com and tweets at @REasther

Tech
Jul 20, 2020

Despite its starry backers' claims, the CovidCard is no magic solution

The Bluetooth-enabled tracking device is being sold as a more effective alternative to the Covid Tracer app, but the brutal truth is that neither are the miracle solution we want.

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Science
Jan 3, 2020

Red sky at night: when the Australian bushfires crossed the Tasman Sea

Leading physicist Richard Easther explains what's been going on with the smoky orange skies above New Zealand.

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Science
Jul 17, 2019

One small step

Today (NZT) is the 50th anniversary of the launch of Apollo 11, the first spaceflight to land humans on the Moon. Astronomer Richard Easther looks back.

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Science
Apr 12, 2019

Why that black hole image is a galaxy-shattering achievement

You've probably seen the image, but have you been secretly wondering why it's such a big deal? NZ cosmologist and physicist Professor Richard Easther explains.

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Science
Mar 5, 2019

The kids are revolting, and they’re smarter than you

Just like the principals, students striking over climate change are seeking control and order. But what our children are hoping to control is the environment they inherit

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Science
Aug 1, 2018

This creationist claptrap has absolutely no place in a science class

There is simply no way to present this material without misrepresenting the science, writes cosmologist Richard Easther

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Science
Sep 13, 2017

RIP, Cassini. Thanks for all the memories

The 20-year-old Saturn exploring Cassini spacecraft meets its fiery demise this week. Beyond revealing the universe to us, space exploration exposes our own small place in the big picture, writes Richard Easther

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Science
Apr 26, 2017

What was that strange object glowing above New Zealand on Anzac Day?

Last night a bright disk-shaped object had New Zealanders craning their necks at the sky. Cosmologist Richard Easther explains what it was. Clue: not Venus.

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Science
Nov 22, 2016

The Kaikoura quake brought out the best in GeoNet. Not so much in some politicians

Gerry Brownlee's intemperate response to the GeoNet director's calls for a 24/7 response centre damages further scientists' willingness to share their expertise with the public, writes Richard Easther.

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