James O'Donoghue of the University of Reading has won the 2026 Carl Sagan Medal from the American Astronomical Society for outstanding public communication. He created over 100 educational space animations that have amassed more than 400 million views worldwide. The AAS praised him as an "extraordinarily creative and effective communicator" and acknowledged his leadership in planetary science. O'Donoghue also organises community events like Observe the Moon Night and frequently contributes to media outlets such as the BBC and PBS.
James O'Donoghue Wins 2026 Carl Sagan Medal for Bringing Space to Millions
James O'Donoghue's videos have been viewed more than 400 million times [University of Reading]
James O'Donoghue, a planetary scientist at the University of Reading, has been awarded the 2026 Carl Sagan Medal by the American Astronomical Society (AAS) for exceptional public communication. The honour recognises his work making complex planetary science accessible to broad audiences through clear explanation and vivid visuals.
Popular Animations and Public Outreach
O'Donoghue has produced more than 100 educational animations about planets and space phenomena, which have been viewed more than 400 million times worldwide. Alongside his animations, he regularly contributes to national and local media outlets, including the BBC and PBS in the United States, bringing authoritative scientific insight to mainstream audiences.
The award is named after US astronomer and scientist Carl Sagan [Getty Images]
Why the AAS Chose Him
The AAS described O'Donoghue as an “extraordinarily creative and effective communicator” and a “recognised leader” in planetary science. The society said he “truly exemplifies the spirit of the Sagan Prize through the combination of his unique and impactful communication work with his scientific leadership.” The Carl Sagan Medal is named in honour of the late Carl Sagan, whose 1980 television series Cosmos popularised astronomy for millions.
“Space is one of the few subjects that almost everyone is curious about, and that curiosity is worth taking seriously,” O'Donoghue said. “When people understand what's happening on other planets, it changes how they see our own world. Sharing that science as widely and accessibly as possible is just as important as doing it in the first place.”
Local Engagement and Broader Impact
At the University of Reading, O'Donoghue organises the annual Observe the Moon Night, a campus stargazing event that attracts hundreds of participants. Previous recipients of the Carl Sagan Medal have been recognised for public engagement on subjects ranging from the Moon's origins to the search for habitable exoplanets, placing O'Donoghue in a line of communicators who bridge research and public curiosity.
What This Means: The award highlights the growing importance of accessible science communication and recognises individuals who successfully translate technical research into engaging stories and visuals that reach global audiences.
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