Australian astronomer and media personality, Greg Quicke, known as “Space Gandalf” for his distinctive white beard, has passed away at the age of 62. Quicke, who hailed from Broome, Western Australia, gained fame for his appearances on the BBC’s Stargazing Live alongside Professor Brian Cox.
In the 2017 Stargazing Live Australia series, Quicke played the role of the practical astronomer to Professor Cox’s theoretical physicist, providing insights into why the night sky looks different in Australia compared to the UK. His media career also included a 10-part series on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) titled A Stargazers Guide to the Cosmos, as well as several books on astronomy.
Quicke was not only a familiar face on television but also a renowned tour guide, running “astro tours” in his hometown of Broome. Over the years, he estimated that he had guided around 100,000 participants, including a BBC producer who helped elevate his profile on the world stage.
Professor Cox expressed his sadness at Quicke’s passing, remembering him fondly for his poetic descriptions of astronomical events. Quicke had been battling cancer since 2023, and a post on his website before his death announced the closure of his 2024 stargazing season due to health challenges.
Tributes have poured in for Quicke on social media, with many remembering him as a great scientific communicator and a source of positivity in the community. His love for helping people understand the wonders of the night sky was evident in his work, as he aimed to bring the mysteries of the universe closer to home for his audiences.
Greg Quicke’s legacy as a beloved astronomer and educator will continue to inspire future generations to look up at the stars and wonder about the vastness of the cosmos.
