Asteroid 149831 “Okeke”: International Astronomical Union Honours Nigerian Professor Francisca N. Okeke
In a landmark recognition for African science, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) has named Asteroid 149831 “Okeke” after Professor Francisca N. Okeke, a trailblazing Nigerian physicist from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). This rare honour immortalises her groundbreaking contributions to physics, atmospheric research, and space science, ensuring her name will forever shine among the stars.
Why an Asteroid?
Asteroids are ancient rocky remnants from the early solar system, orbiting the Sun mainly between Mars and Jupiter. With billions of years of history, having one named after a scientist is one of astronomy’s highest honours—reserved only for individuals whose work has advanced humanity’s knowledge.
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Who Is Professor Francisca Okeke?
Born in Idemili North, Anambra State, Prof. Okeke began her academic journey at UNN, where she earned degrees in Physics, Science Education, Applied Earth Geophysics, and later a Ph.D. in Ionospheric Geophysics. She completed postdoctoral studies at the University of Tokyo, Japan, forging international collaborations in atmospheric and space science.
Her career is filled with historic firsts:
- First female Head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, UNN (2003–2006)
- First female Dean, Faculty of Physical Sciences, UNN (2008–2010)
- First female Professor of Physics in Eastern Nigeria
Beyond academia, Prof. Okeke has mentored countless women in STEM, championed gender inclusivity, and trained future generations of scientists.
Her Groundbreaking Research
Prof. Okeke’s work focuses on the ionosphere and the equatorial electrojet phenomenon—a ribbon of electric current circling Earth’s magnetic equator. Her findings have helped scientists understand how solar activity affects Earth’s magnetic field, with implications for:
- Climate change
- Space weather forecasting
- Earthquake and tsunami prediction
This research has real-world applications in protecting technology and preparing for natural disasters.
Awards and Global Recognition
In 2013, she won the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science Award for Africa and the Arab States, solidifying her status as one of the world’s leading female scientists. That same year, she was named among the Top 100 Most Influential Africans by New African Magazine.
She is also married to Prof. Pius Nwankwo Okeke, widely regarded as the “Father of Astronomy in Nigeria” and co-author of Nigeria’s popular Senior Secondary Physics textbook. Together, they have authored 15 textbooks on physics and astronomy, shaping science education across Nigeria.
Immortalised Among the Stars
By naming Asteroid 149831 “Okeke” in her honour, Prof. Francisca Okeke joins a select group of global icons such as Albert Einstein, Isaac Newton, and Marie Curie—scientists whose names will forever orbit in the cosmos. Her asteroid, discovered by the Catalina Sky Survey in Arizona, USA, is now a permanent tribute to her pioneering role in advancing atmospheric physics, astronomy, and space science.
