Galactic delights such as meteor showers, shooting stars and eclipses have evoked a sense of magic and wonder in professional and amateur astronomers for ages. The next big astronomical event, the first total lunar eclipse in three years, is happening on January 21. Befittingly, this event takes place on the first full moon of 2019. As excitement builds, Dr. George Mumford, a resident of Equinox Terrace Assisted Living, and his loved ones are reminiscing on his lifelong passion for and career in astronomy. During his childhood, Mumford spent many nights gazing at the stars. In elementary school, his enthusiasm for the cosmos was born and he created an astronomy club for his friends to join. Later, he received his A.B. in astronomy from Harvard in 1950, a master’s degree from Virginia University in 1952, and a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia in 1955. For the next 40 years, he shared his love of astronomy with his students at Tufts University and with his own children.
“My father began instructing in the mathematics department and eventually worked his way up to becoming a full professor in 1968,” said Barbara Hand. “He created the university’s astronomy department and worked fiercely to research, learn and foster his knowledge in the field of astronomy. He valued staying up to date to ensure that his students received the best education possible. I took one of his astronomy classes while I was a student in 1971 and still have copious notes that I kept as a reminder of such a special time for the both of us.”
Shortly after becoming a full professor, Mumford became dean of the College of Liberal Arts in 1969 and went on to hold numerous positions as dean during the remainder of his tenure at Tufts. During this time, Mumford was heavily invested in the research of supernovae, as he was a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Royal Astronomical Society. Wanting to share his knowledge and expertise, Mumford contributed a number of research articles to publications such as Sky & Telescope. In 1997, he became professor emeritus and wrote two books featuring his greatest passions: astronomy and fly fishing. The first book providing exercises and stories to entertain bored astronomers on cloudy nights and the other discusses Mumford’s experiences salmon fishing on the Miramichi River.
Today, Mumford is focused on exploring his love of fly fishing, though he still enjoys observing the night sky and viewing the wonders of the celestial world when given the opportunity in addition to working on calculus puzzles. As the upcoming lunar eclipse approaches, Hand fondly recalls viewing various solar and lunar eclipses with her father, noting they were moments of both professional and personal joy.
“I couldn’t begin to tell you how many eclipses my father has photographed and observed during his career,” said Hand. “However, I know each one was an event he found worthy of setting aside time to witness. As children my siblings and I were always included to witness these events. Once, we even went so far as to follow the path of a solar eclipse on a cruise. These events were a marvel to behold and resulted in fond memories that I will cherish forever. I hope others will seek out these opportunities with their own families and for themselves.”
On the evening of the eclipse, residents and team members of Equinox Terrace will have the opportunity to go out and observe the eclipse as it reaches totality and the Earth blocks the light of the sun from reaching the moon.
“As the eclipse approaches, we marvel not only at the beauty of our universe, but also reflect on those who make it their job to alert all of us of these celestial wonders,” said Ann Bouza, executive director of Equinox Terrace Assisted Living. “We’re honored to have accomplished individuals like George Mumford call our community home, as residents like him serve as a constant reminder to expand one’s horizons and look to the stars. We look forward to observing this unique sight with residents, team members and our families.”