Dava Sobel Receives 2025 Cosmos Award for Science Communication Excellence

The Planetary Society proudly announced on June 19, 2025, that renowned author Dava Sobel has been awarded the prestigious Cosmos Award for Outstanding Public Presentation of Science. The award ceremony took place on May 30, 2025, in Washington, D.C., where Sobel was recognized for her exceptional contributions to science communication alongside prominent figures such as Carl Sagan and Neil deGrasse Tyson.

Established in 2005, the Cosmos Award honors individuals who have made significant impacts in bringing scientific concepts to the public in engaging and accessible ways. Sobel, known for her compelling storytelling, has a rich history of weaving science with human narratives, making complex ideas relatable and understandable for a broader audience. Her acclaimed works include "Longitude: The True Story of a Lone Genius Who Solved the Greatest Scientific Problem of His Time," and "Galileo's Daughter: A Historical Memoir of Science, Faith, and Love." These publications have not only gained critical acclaim but also elevated public understanding of significant scientific figures and their contributions.

Bill Nye, the CEO of The Planetary Society, presented the award and commended Sobel for her unique ability to illuminate the human side of scientific discovery. According to Nye, "Dava's work exemplifies the power of storytelling in science, revealing the passion and struggles behind the discoveries that shape our understanding of the universe."

Sobel's acceptance speech highlighted her gratitude to Carl Sagan, whose influence she credits with guiding her career in science communication. Sobel first met Sagan while interviewing him at Cornell University, where he later recommended her for a writing position, marking the beginning of her journey in science writing.

In her latest book, "The Elements of Marie Curie: How the Glow of Radium Lit a Path for Women in Science," Sobel continues to explore the intersection of gender and science, shedding light on the contributions of women in fields traditionally dominated by men. This narrative not only honors Curie's legacy but also aims to inspire future generations of female scientists.

The Cosmos Award has previously been awarded to six distinguished individuals, including physicist Stephen Hawking and filmmaker James Cameron. Sobel's recognition places her among these notable figures, reinforcing the importance of effective science communication in fostering public engagement with scientific inquiry.

The award ceremony was attended by various dignitaries and members of The Planetary Society, all united in celebrating Sobel's achievements. The event underscored the Society's mission to empower individuals and communities in advancing space science and exploration.

As Sobel continues her work in science communication, her contributions serve as a reminder of the vital role storytelling plays in making science accessible and inspiring to all. The Planetary Society congratulates Dava Sobel on this well-deserved honor and looks forward to her future endeavors in enhancing public understanding of science.