Freeman Dyson (1923–2020)

Freeman Dyson (1923–2020)

Freeman Dyson’s long view of humanity

Nuclear physicist and polymath Freeman Dyson’s influence spanned physics, disarmament, politics, culture and even science fiction. While still a student, he provided the mathematical grounds for quantum electrodynamics, or QED, to explain the interactions of elementary particles. The design of a safe, popular nuclear reactor, the adaptive optics used in many telescopes and 50 years of US government advice were among his many legacies — as well as a contrarian view of the impact of climate change.

NatureESO/M. Kornmesser | 4 min read