Sir Norman Lockyer

Born in Rugby, England, on May 17, 1836, Sir Joseph Norman Lockyer built his scientific career while beginning as a civil servant. He became known for applying spectroscopy to the study of the Sun and stars, work that helped shape the new field of astrophysics.

Lockyer is especially remembered for identifying a previously unknown element in the solar spectrum in 1868, later named helium. He also took part in multiple solar-eclipse expeditions, led the Solar Physics Observatory in South Kensington, and wrote widely for both specialist and general readers.

Beyond his own research, his biggest legacy may be as the founder of Nature in 1869. He edited the journal for decades, helping create one of the most influential forums in science, and remained a prominent public voice in scientific life until his death on August 16, 1920.