The Divisions of EPS: The Early Years
Europhysics news · 1993
The Physics in Astronomy Division developed from an initiative by E. Schatzman from Paris fol lowing discussions at conferences in 1970.An interim steering committee prepared a proposal which was accepted in principle by the October 1970 Council.It was felt that the International Astronomical Union among others bodies would object to the title "Astronomy" so Council recom mended the name Physics in Astronomy to the interim Board.The initial proposal, however, had referred to Astronomy and Astrophysics as Phy sics in Astronomy would "give to many people the feeling they are excluded", thus hindering links between the two disciplines.The Division held its inaugural meeting in Paris in February 1972 with 100 participants and high hopes.Members indicated that they wanted the name changed to reflect the main interests, so the Division's draft statutes submitted to Council in 1972 were for an Astronomy and Astrophysics (A&A) Division.The label stuck, especially since the EPS Executive had received an application for a High Energy and Astrophysics Division.