SIR DAVID R. BATES - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 03/30/1991 - HFSID 317396

DAVID R. BATES
The mathematician and physicist writes on letterhead of the Department he founded at Queen's University of Belfast.
Autograph Letter signed: "David R. Bates", 1 page, 8¼x6. Belfast, Northern Ireland, 1991 March 30. On letterhead of the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, Queen's University of Belfast to "Dear Mr. Slapinski", in full: "I am happy to help you in your hobby. The photograph was taken when I was lecturing in the US of A. [Item not included.] Best wishes". Irish mathematician and physicistSir David R. Bates (1916-1994) did groundbreaking research in atmospheric physics, molecular physics, and the chemistry of interstellar clouds. From 1951 he was a professor at Queen's University of Belfast, his alma mater, founding the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics and chairing it until his (nominal) retirement in 1982. During World War II, he worked on protection of ships from magnetic mines. Knighted in 1978, Bates was a Fellow of the Royal Society, and vice-president of the Royal Irish Society, winner of the Hughes Medal in 1970. A lifelong opponent of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland, he was a founding member of the Alliance Party there. Awards in his name are bestowed by the European Geophysical Society and the Institute of Physics. Fold in center. Corners slightly worn and creased. Light surface creases. Otherwise, fine condition.