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Rugged Devices Market size is set to grow by USD 1.15 billion from 2024-2028, Growing demand for data management systems to boost the market growth, Technavio

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NEW YORK, June 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The global rugged devices market  size is estimated to grow by USD 1.15 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 4.36%  during the forecast period.  Growing demand for data management systems is driving market growth, with a trend towards emerging applications of rugged devices. However, use of consumer-grade devices in place of rugged devices  poses a challenge. Key market players include Advantech Co. Ltd., ARBOR Technology Corp., Bluebird Inc., Caterpillar Inc., CipherLab Co. Ltd., Datalogic SpA, DT Research Inc., Handheld Group AB, Honeywell International Inc., JLT Mobile Computers AB, KYOCERA Corp., MilDef Group AB, MiTAC Holdings Corp., Panasonic Holdings Corp., RUGGED SCIENCE, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Touchstar Plc, Unitech Computer Co. Ltd., WIDEUM SOLUTIONS S.L., and Zebra Technologies Corp..

Get a detailed analysis on regions, market segments, customer landscape, and companies – Click for the snapshot of this report

Forecast period

2024-2028

Base Year

2023

Historic Data

2018 – 2022

Segment Covered

Type (Semi-rugged, Fully-rugged, and Ultra-rugged), Product (Rugged mobile computers and smartphones, Rugged tablets and notebooks, Rugged scanners, and Rugged air quality monitors), End-user (Industrial, Commercial, Military and defense, and Government), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa)

Region Covered

North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa

Key companies profiled

Advantech Co. Ltd., ARBOR Technology Corp., Bluebird Inc., Caterpillar Inc., CipherLab Co. Ltd., Datalogic SpA, DT Research Inc., Handheld Group AB, Honeywell International Inc., JLT Mobile Computers AB, KYOCERA Corp., MilDef Group AB, MiTAC Holdings Corp., Panasonic Holdings Corp., RUGGED SCIENCE, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Touchstar Plc, Unitech Computer Co. Ltd., WIDEUM SOLUTIONS S.L., and Zebra Technologies Corp.

Key Market Trends Fueling Growth

Rugged mobile devices, built for harsh environments, are replacing consumer handheld devices due to their durability and advanced features like Bluetooth, walkie-talkie, data/voice communication, and Wi-Fi. These devices are preferred in industries for supply chain, inventory, and operational management, enhancing customer experience in retail and hospitality. In April 2022, Kyocera integrated walkie-talkie in Microsoft Teams on ultra-rugged 5G Android smartphones. Rugged devices are cost-effective and are gaining traction in new sectors like hospitality, retail, waste management, and public transportation for optimized performance and efficiency. Biffa uses Zebra Technologies’ TC55, and Helsinki Region Transport uses Handheld Group’s Nautiz eTicket Pro PDAs. The increasing integration of technology in rugged devices is driving market growth. 

The market for rugged devices is experiencing significant growth, with various players offering innovative solutions. Markets such as construction, transportation, and healthcare are adopting these devices due to their durability and functionality. Features like waterproofing, drop resistance, and long battery life are key trends in this sector. Additionally, the integration of advanced technologies like GPS, facial recognition, and artificial intelligence is enhancing the capabilities of rugged devices. The use of materials like aluminum and Gorilla Glass ensures the devices can withstand harsh environments. Overall, the rugged devices market is poised for continued expansion as businesses seek reliable and robust technology solutions. 

Research report provides comprehensive data on impact of trend. For more details- Download a Sample Report

Market Challenges

The global rugged devices market faces challenges due to the increasing use of consumer-grade devices. End-users, including government entities, prefer less expensive consumer devices, which match the ruggedness levels of rugged devices. Companies like Apple, Samsung Electronics, and Sony enhance the ruggedness of their consumer devices, offering features such as IP67 and IP68 grading. While the total cost of ownership for rugged devices is lower, the high initial cost of procurement can impact businesses, especially during large-scale implementations. Consumer-grade devices offer additional functionalities, such as barcode scanning and IoT applications, and advanced technologies like augmented reality and artificial intelligence.The rugged devices market faces several challenges in delivering optimal performance in various industries. These devices, designed for harsh environments, require advanced features such as durability, waterproofing, and shock resistance. However, integrating these features increases the cost, making it difficult for manufacturers to cater to budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, the rapid advancement of technology necessitates frequent updates and improvements, adding to the development costs. Furthermore, ensuring compatibility with various applications and software can be a complex process. Lastly, ensuring reliable connectivity in remote locations remains a significant challenge. Despite these hurdles, the rugged devices market continues to grow, driven by the increasing demand for mobile computing solutions in sectors like construction, transportation, and healthcare.

For more insights on driver and challenges – Download a Sample Report

Segment Overview 

This rugged devices market report extensively covers market segmentation by

Type 1.1 Semi-rugged1.2 Fully-rugged1.3 Ultra-ruggedProduct 2.1 Rugged mobile computers and smartphones2.2 Rugged tablets and notebooks2.3 Rugged scanners2.4 Rugged air quality monitorsEnd-user 3.1 Industrial3.2 Commercial3.3 Military and defense3.4 GovernmentGeography 4.1 North America4.2 Europe4.3 APAC4.4 South America4.5 Middle East and Africa

1.1 Semi-rugged-  The rugged devices market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing demand for robust and durable technology solutions in various industries. These devices are designed to withstand harsh environments and offer enhanced security features, making them ideal for sectors such as construction, transportation, and healthcare. Companies are investing in rugged devices to improve operational efficiency and ensure business continuity in challenging conditions. The market is expected to continue expanding as technology advances and industries seek more reliable and resilient solutions.

For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 – 2022)  – Download a Sample Report

Research Analysis

In the dynamic world of data management, rugged devices have emerged as a crucial tool for various industries, particularly in the aerospace and defense, military and defense, and utilities sector. Strategic collaborations between vendors have been instrumental in expanding the rugged devices market, enabling the creation of innovative solutions for diverse applications. Android-based devices have gained significant traction due to their versatility and compatibility with multiple sources. Upcoming trends in rugged devices include the integration of machine learning and big data capabilities, enhancing operational efficiency and customer reach in geographic areas previously untapped. Rugged smartphones, a key product range, are increasingly being adopted for logistics services and warehouse management. The market facets of rugged devices are vast, catering to the unique needs of industries that demand robust and durable devices. Rugged devices offer untapped opportunities for vendors, as they cater to industries with specific requirements, such as military and defense, where operational efficiency and data security are paramount. The integration of rugged devices with aerospace and defense applications is a promising development, as it enables real-time data processing and analysis, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making capabilities.

Market Research Overview

The Rugged Devices Market encompasses a range of robust and durable electronic devices designed to withstand harsh environments and extreme conditions. These devices are essential in various industries such as oil and gas, mining, construction, military, and transportation. Key features of rugged devices include shock resistance, waterproofing, temperature tolerance, and long battery life. The market is driven by the increasing demand for reliable communication and data processing in challenging conditions. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning, are enhancing the capabilities of rugged devices. The market is expected to grow significantly due to the expanding applications in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and disaster management.

Table of Contents:

1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation

TypeSemi-ruggedFully-ruggedUltra-ruggedProductRugged Mobile Computers And SmartphonesRugged Tablets And NotebooksRugged ScannersRugged Air Quality MonitorsEnd-userIndustrialCommercialMilitary And DefenseGovernmentGeographyNorth AmericaEuropeAPACSouth AmericaMiddle East And Africa

7 Customer Landscape
8 Geographic Landscape
9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends
10 Company Landscape
11 Company Analysis
12 Appendix

About Technavio

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions.

With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio’s report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio’s comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios.

Contacts

Technavio Research
Jesse Maida
Media & Marketing Executive
US: +1 844 364 1100
UK: +44 203 893 3200
Email: media@technavio.com
Website: www.technavio.com/

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SOURCE Technavio

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Technology

CES 2025: The Global Stage for Innovation, Connecting the World, Creating the Future

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Where Technology Meets Humanity to Create Extraordinary Possibilities

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CES® 2025, the most powerful tech event in the world, welcomed over 141,000 attendees from around the globe. With more than 4500 exhibitors, including 1400 startups, and more than 6000 media attendees, CES highlights the innovation and technology trends addressing global challenges and shaping the future.

“CES is where innovation comes to life,” said Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair, Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®, owner and producer of CES. “From the largest companies to trailblazing startups, the entire tech ecosystem is at the show. CES is the stage for groundbreaking product launches, transformative partnerships, and serendipitous business moments that define the future of technology.”

CES 2025 by the Numbers*

4500+ exhibitors, including 1400 startups141,000+ attendees, of which 40% were international from over 150 countries, regions, and territories6000+ global media, content creators, and industry analystsOver 60% of Fortune 500 companies300+ conference sessions with 1200+ speakers27,000+ news stories and content

*pre-audit figures

“From groundbreaking innovations that improve lives to transformative ideas that redefine industries, CES is a celebration of the art of the possible, showcasing how technology enriches our world and inspires a brighter future for all,” said Kinsey Fabrizio, President, CTA. “The evolution of CES has surged at this year’s show, where creativity, connectivity, and innovation inspire with visionary keynotes, thought-provoking conference sessions, and mind-blowing exhibits.”

As one of the most transparent trade shows, CES adheres to rigorous auditing standards established by UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. To maintain the integrity of its reports, CES engages independent auditors, fostering trust among stakeholders.

“CES reaffirms its status as the largest audited annual business event,” said Fabrizio. “We look forward to releasing third-party confirmation in the spring, because at CTA we believe auditing is not just a nice-to-have, but the gold standard for global business events.” 

Catch all the highlights and announcements from CES 2025 – including all conference programming—via CES YouTube and the CES Tech Talk Podcast. Watch the CES 2025 State of the Industry Address here.

CES 2025 Highlights 

Artificial Intelligence – CES 2025 connected the dots between humanity and AI through powerful exhibits and programming. From AI-driven productivity tools to breakthroughs in medical advancements, products and services on the show floor demonstrated that artificial intelligence is not just a technology trend but a transformative force improving lives worldwide.
Exhibitors included: AMD, Hisense, LG, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, Samsung, Siemens, TCL

Digital Health – This year, CES 2025 saw tremendous energy at the Venetian where attendees witnessed the category’s seamless alignment with the smart living experience. CES has cemented itself as a premier convenor for the healthcare industry, bringing together trailblazers to explore biotechnology, telehealth, and wellness advancements that enhance patient care and longevity. Attendees celebrated the vibrant and dynamic environment that underscored how technology is transforming everyday life, particularly in health and wellness.
Exhibitors & Sponsors included: AARP, Abbott, Eyebot, FlowBeams, Lumia Health, OnMed, Panasonic, ResMed, Withings

Energy Transition – With the growth of high-power demand technologies like AI, cloud, and other data center innovations, the energy transition to zero carbon sources was a significant focus at CES 2025. Experimental energy solutions including battery and energy storage technologies, emerging energy sources like green hydrogen, and small modular nuclear reactors were highlights on the show floor.
Exhibitors included: Eaton, Jackery, Otrera, SK, Sony Honda Mobility

Mobility – Mobility innovation spanned construction, agriculture, marine tech, and advanced air travel. At CES 2025, self-driving and electric technologies enhanced planes and boats, and EV market growth brought new models from global OEMs to the show. Automation in construction and industry enhanced safety and addressed workforce gaps in labor-intensive roles.
Exhibitors included: Aptera Motors, BMW, Bosch, Brunswick, Caterpillar, Daedong, Garmin, Honda, Invo Station, John Deere, Kubota, Mobileye, Oshkosh, Scout Motors, Sumitomo Rubber, Scout Motors, Suzuki, Waymo, Xpeng AeroHT, Zeekr

Quantum – CES 2025 featured the latest innovations in quantum technologies, offering a glimpse into the future. Quantum technology uses properties of quantum mechanics to enable three distinct disciplines: improved networking, computing, and sensing. Innovations at the show demonstrated how quantum computing, working alongside AI, will allow for breakthroughs in research and computing for finance, chemistry, materials, logistics, and more.
Exhibitors included: Integrated Quantum Photonic, IonQ, QSIMPLUS, Quandela, SK

Sustainability – Sustainability is a crucial trend shaping technology innovation, especially in the context of energy transition. CES featured key advancements including new battery technologies, alternative material development like graphene, and off-grid renewable energy solutions. The show also put a spotlight on innovations such as synthetic microbes, bioplastics, and self-healing concrete that will contribute to sustainable construction.
Exhibitors included: Hydrific, Lyten, Melliens, Panasonic

Startups – Eureka Park was completely full, with 1400 startups from 39 countries including country pavilions representing Africa, European Union (EU), France, Italy, Israel, Japan, Korea, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Ukraine. Eureka Park is where innovators, investors, and the media meet to highlight and get hands-on with the technologies that will shape our collective future in core areas including accessibility, AI, digital health, and sustainability.

Keynotes 

NVIDIA
NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang on Monday drew 6300 attendees to unveil the GeForce RTX 50, surpassing the RTX 4090 in performance, and introduced Agentic AI, a real-time assistant to streamline consumer workflows. Huang also showcased the Cosmos World Foundation Model and generative AI tools to advance robotics navigation. Highlighting AI-driven innovation, Huang announced a partnership with Toyota to develop next-gen autonomous vehicles using the safety-certified NVIDIA DriveOS. 

Panasonic Holdings Corporation
Panasonic Holdings Group CEO Yuki Kusumi shared Panasonic Group’s vision for sustainability, artificial intelligence, and the health of future generations. DJ and record producer Steve Aoki jump-started the keynote with a performance before Mr. Kusumi, joined on stage by Marvel actor Anthony Mackie and other Panasonic Group leaders, delivered Panasonic’s “Well Into the Future” message. As an extension of the current Panasonic Well portfolio, Panasonic announced Umi, a holistic digital family wellness platform and coach. 

SiriusXM
Jennifer Witz, CEO, SiriusXM, joined Ashley Flowers, #1 female podcaster in the U.S. and host of the hit podcast Crime Junkie, on the C Space stage to deliver a keynote on the intersection of technology, creativity, and storytelling in audio. The conversation covered the importance of authenticity, how AI is changing the creative landscape, and adapting consumer interests.

X Corp.
Linda Yaccarino, CEO, X Corp., spoke with award-winning journalist Catherine Herridge about how the company is defining the future of digital communication. The conversation focused on X’s transformational work to create a “global newsroom in your pocket.” Yaccarino highlighted the significance of Meta’s announcement that the company will follow X’s lead in adopting a community notes approach to content moderation.

Delta Air Lines at Sphere
The first keynote at Sphere in CES history wowed over 8000 attendees! The immersive experience spotlighted Delta Air Lines’ innovations in seamless travel, onboard experiences, and the future of flight. Ed Bastian, CEO, Delta Air Lines, announced Delta Concierge and partnerships with Airbus, DraftKings, Joby, Uber, and YouTube. Special guests included actress Viola Davis, football legend Tom Brady, and GRAMMY-winning icon Lenny Kravitz.

Volvo Group
Martin Lundstedt, President and CEO, Volvo Group, emphasized the company’s commitment to building a safer, more sustainable, and more productive future. He called on policymakers and industry leaders to accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles and discussed the company’s partnership with Aurora, aimed at advancing the development of safer, self-driving vehicles.

Accenture
Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO, Accenture, discussed how data, AI, and new ways of working are transforming industries and addressing global challenges with Julia Boorstin, CNBC senior media & tech correspondent. Sweet emphasized the need for businesses to build trust in AI technologies, especially as AI becomes increasingly autonomous in a society where trust is scarce. She also highlighted Accenture’s 25th annual Tech Vision, which explores the paths leaders can take when AI is ubiquitous.

Waymo
Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO, Waymo, spoke with Bloomberg Technology’s Ed Ludlow on the company’s progress in developing its self-driving technology, Waymo Driver. Mawakana emphasized safety and expanding its autonomous ride-hailing service to new cities while showcasing advancements in technology and outlining a vision for a safer and more accessible future.

Conference Programming
CES 2025 offered more than 300 conference sessions, exploring how tech solves some of the world’s greatest challenges.

C Space – C Space at ARIA brought together thousands of senior-level marketing professionals to explore the intersection of technology, media, and branding. Attendees heard from leading industry innovators from brands like Reddit, NBCUniversal, and Microsoft Advertising about how technology is shaping the future of storytelling, consumer engagement, and brand strategy. C Space sessions emphasized the importance of creativity and authenticity in navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape.CES Creator Space – The first-ever CES Creator Space, presented by Sony, gathered storytellers to network, create content, and relax in between visiting exhibitors. Sessions led by industry experts helped creators elevate their craft, featuring discussions on storytelling, content monetization, brand partnerships, rights and ownership, and more.Digital Health Summit brought together the entire health ecosystem to learn, network, and explore the role technology plays in advancing and reforming medicine, healthcare, and consumer wellness.Great Minds series explored the intersection of technology and humanity. Speakers included C-Suite executives, philanthropists, influencers, government leaders, entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and more.Innovation for All Track included dedicated programming focused on ensuring all voices are represented in technology and innovation, bringing together thought leaders for a series of engagement opportunities, dynamic session content, and networking events.Innovation Policy Summit advanced CTA’s Innovation Agenda. CES brought together policymakers and government guests from around the world to discuss domestic and global tech policy issues including AI, privacy, trade, competition, and more. Conference sessions featured high-level government speakers from the White House, Department of Commerce, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Transportation, Federal Communications Commission, Federal Maritime Commission, Federal Trade Commission, and more.Mobility Stage made its debut in West Hall, exploring the future of mobility tech on the CES show floor. Topics included AI, connected vehicles, software, supply chain, and more.Quantum Means Business, a multi-session conference track developed with Quantum World Congress, gathered some of the brightest quantum minds, showcasing breakthroughs that were once confined to science fiction. Industry leaders from IBM, Microsoft, and beyond shared insights into how quantum, paired with advancements in AI and machine learning, creates unparalleled opportunities across industries.Startup Stage in Eureka Park brought together visionaries to discuss AI, health, startup funding, and more.

Celebrities at CES
Celebrity brand ambassadors like Alexis Ohanian, Denim Richards, Karlie Kloss, Maria Shriver, Mark Cuban, Martha Stewart, Meghan Trainor, Sophia Bush, Stevie Wonder, Terry Crews, Tim Meadows, Tunde Oyeneyin, and will.i.am attended the show. Read more about CES 2025 celebrity guest participation here.

Visit CES or the CES App, sponsored by Panasonic, for keynotes, sessions, and product announcements. View the high-res image gallery and download B-roll. Check out news from this week with CTA press releases including CTA’s U.S. Consumer Technology One-Year Industry Forecast, CES 2025 Green Grants, CTA 2025 Global Innovation Scorecard, CES 2025 Open, and a new investment in Quantum Word Congress.

We’ll DIVE IN again as CES returns to Las Vegas January 6-9, 2026.

About CES®:
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world’s biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) ®, CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2025 takes place Jan. 7-10, 2025, in Las Vegas. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social

About Consumer Technology Association (CTA)®:
As North America’s largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world’s leading innovators – from startups to global brands – helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES® – the most powerful tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech. Follow us @CTAtech

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SOURCE Consumer Technology Association

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KNEX Technology CTO Gustavo Gonzalez Elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG

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Gustavo Gonzalez, KNEX Technology’s CTO, has been elected 2025 President-Elect of OATUG, emphasizing his dedication to Oracle innovation, collaboration, and leadership, including Ascend 2025’s strategic initiatives.

IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — KNEX Technology, a leading Oracle Cloud solutions provider, is proud to announce that its Chief Technology Officer, Gustavo Gonzalez, has been elected as the 2025 President-Elect of the Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG). This esteemed appointment highlights Gonzalez’s longstanding commitment to advancing innovation and collaboration within the Oracle community.

OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career. As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.

In his new role, Gonzalez will work closely with the OATUG leadership team throughout 2025, preparing to serve as OATUG President in 2026. He will focus on empowering Oracle professionals worldwide by fostering knowledge-sharing, community engagement, and professional development. OATUG, a globally recognized organization, supports its members in overcoming challenges, enhancing the value of Oracle solutions, and driving organizational success.

“OATUG has played a pivotal role in my professional growth, and it is a privilege to contribute to this community which has enriched my career,” said Gustavo Gonzalez. “As President-Elect, I look forward to collaborating with my peers to strengthen the Oracle user community and further its impact on businesses worldwide.”

Gonzalez’s election underscores his dedication to giving back to the Oracle ecosystem. A key focus of his role will include shaping OATUG’s strategic initiatives, such as the annual Ascend Conference, which unites Oracle users, thought leaders, and technology innovators for unparalleled learning and networking opportunities.

The upcoming Ascend 2025 Conference, scheduled for June 8–11 in Orlando, Florida, promises to build on the success of the 2024 event, which attracted more than 1,800 attendees. With early bird registration now open, Gonzalez aims to ensure the conference continues to deliver transformative insights and experiences for the Oracle community.

About OATUG

The Oracle Applications & Technology Users Group (OATUG) is the premier global organization for Oracle users, providing year-round education, networking, and advocacy. OATUG empowers its members to unlock the full potential of Oracle solutions, fostering innovation and collaboration across industries.

About KNEX Technology

KNEX Technology is a trusted leader in Oracle Cloud solutions, delivering cutting-edge products and services to help businesses achieve their objectives. Through its innovative approach and customer-focused strategies, KNEX enables organizations to navigate the complexities of today’s technology landscape. For more information, visit www.knextech.com.

Media Contact

Husna Gyasi, KNEX Technology, 1 (949) 232-0786, husna.ghayaisi@knextech.com, https://knextech.com/

Twitter, LinkedIn

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Dr. Gerard van Belle Appointed Director of Science at Lowell Observatory, Charting a Bold Future for Research

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Dr. van Belle to guide scientific exploration and foster innovation in the next era of astronomical research

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Jan. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lowell Observatory is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Gerard van Belle as the new Director of Science. Van Belle, who has been an astronomer at the observatory since 2011, has been serving as the interim Director of Science.

In his new role, van Belle will lead a diverse team of astronomers and planetary scientists. He will spearhead the observatory’s new Science Vision, which focuses on advancing research capabilities and implementing cutting-edge technological improvements supporting Lowell’s leadership in astronomical research.

Under his leadership, the science department will continue to advance Lowell Observatory’s mission to pursue the study of astronomy, including the study of our solar system and its evolution, and to conduct pure research in astrophysical phenomena.

Van Belle’s own research focuses on fundamental stellar parameters, including the sizes, shapes, masses, distances, and temperatures of various types of stars. He is also renowned for his expertise in optical and near-infrared astronomical interferometry.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in physics from Whitman College in 1990, followed by a master’s degree from The Johns Hopkins University in 1993, and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Wyoming in 1996.

Throughout his career, van Belle has been instrumental in the development and commissioning of major optical interferometers worldwide, including the Palomar Testbed Interferometer, the Keck Interferometer, and the Very Large Telescope Interferometer. His pioneering work in stellar surface imaging earned him the inaugural Edward Stone Award for Outstanding Research Publication at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 2002.

In 2011, van Belle joined Lowell Observatory’s science staff, where he applied high-resolution astronomical techniques to detect nearby exoplanets and map stellar surfaces. He served as the Director of the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) in Flagstaff, Arizona, from 2017 to 2018, and subsequently as its Chief Scientist until 2022.

Notably, van Belle was among the astronomers who voted against the definition of ‘planet’ advanced during the 2006 International Astronomical Union (IAU) conference in Prague, which relegated Pluto to being a ‘dwarf planet’ (which according to the IAU resolution is not a planet).

His extensive experience and dedication to advancing astronomical research make him a valuable leader for Lowell Observatory’s scientific endeavors.

“I am honored to take on this role at such a pivotal time for Lowell Observatory,” said van Belle. “Our Science Vision will guide us in exploring new frontiers in astronomy while strengthening our commitment to public engagement and education.”

Executive Director Dr. Amanda Bosh expressed her confidence in van Belle’s leadership: “Gerard’s extensive experience and dedication to our mission make him the ideal person to lead our scientific endeavors. I look forward to working closely with him as we embark on this exciting new chapter for Lowell Observatory.”

For more information about Lowell Observatory’s research and public programs, visit lowell.edu.

About Lowell Observatory
Founded in 1894, Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a renowned nonprofit research institution. It is the site of historic and groundbreaking discoveries, including the first evidence of the expanding universe and the discovery of Pluto. Today, Lowell’s astronomers utilize global ground-based and space telescopes, along with NASA spacecraft, for diverse astronomical and planetary science research. The observatory hosts more than 100,000 visitors annually for educational tours, presentations, and telescope viewing through a suite of world-class public telescopes.

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SOURCE Lowell Observatory

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