Date of Birth: March 29, 1941
Zodiac Sign: Aries
Biography
James Edward Hansen is an eminent American scientist known for his pioneering research in climatology. Born on March 29, 1941, in Denison, Iowa, he has been a prominent figure in the study of Earth’s climate, particularly his work on global warming. Hansen earned his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Iowa in 1967, where he studied under James Van Allen, the discoverer of the Van Allen radiation belts. Hansen joined NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) in 1967, where he eventually became the director. His groundbreaking testimony before the United States Congress in 1988 brought the issue of climate change to the forefront of public awareness. Hansen’s research has focused on understanding the Earth’s climate system and the potential impacts of human activities. Over his illustrious career, Hansen has published numerous scientific papers and has been a vocal advocate for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. He has authored books like “Storms of My Grandchildren,” which discusses the dire consequences of climate change and the urgent need for action.
5 Interesting Facts about James Hansen
1. James Hansen was one of the first scientists to alert the world to the dangers of climate change in his 1988 congressional testimony.
2. He has been arrested multiple times for participating in environmental protests, demonstrating his commitment to climate activism.
3. Hansen’s research has earned him numerous awards, including the Carl-Gustaf Rossby Research Medal, the highest honor for atmospheric science.
4. He served as the director of NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies from 1981 to 2013.
5. Despite his scientific background, Hansen has called for urgent political and social action to combat climate change, emphasizing the role of public policy.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from James Hansen
1. “Global warming isn’t a prediction. It is happening.”
2. “We cannot burn all of the fossil fuels in the ground without causing dangerous climate impacts.”
3. “We owe it to our children and grandchildren to act now.”
4. “The planet is warming due to human activities, and the warming is already having serious consequences.”
5. “Delay is not an option if we want to preserve a livable planet for future generations.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
James Hansen’s highest net worth has been estimated at approximately $2 million, primarily from his salary as a scientist and his published works.
Children
James Hansen has two children, a son named James and a daughter named Sophie. Both have been supportive of his scientific and activist endeavors.
Relevant Links
1. [NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies](https://www.giss.nasa.gov/
2. [James Hansen’s Biography on NASA](https://www.giss.nasa.gov/staff/jhansen.html
5. [James Hansen’s Personal Website](http://www.columbia.edu/~jeh1/
