Jimmy Negus is a solar physics research scientist at NOAA NCEI working with data from the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Series-R (GOES-R). He studies solar activity, and his work focuses on improving in-flight calibration and validation of GOES-R data and developing data tools and products for X-ray and ultraviolet time series. Negus recently completed his Ph.D. in astrophysics at CU Boulder, and he has authored two books: Mysteries of Space: Black Holes Explained and Mysteries of Space: Supernovas Explained. Negus is also strongly involved in astronomy outreach—he led the campaign to bring a new scale model solar system to CU Boulder's campus, which helps visitors better understand the size and vastness of space. He serves as an active Board Member for The Astronomical Society of the Pacific, the largest general astronomy education society in the world. And in all his spare time, Negus loves to stargaze with his 8’’ Dobsonian Telescope and explore Colorado on two wheels.

Humans of CIRES Q&A

Q: What do you do here at CIRES?
I study solar activity measured by the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Series-R (GOES-R). Specifically, I improve the in-flight calibration and validation of GOES-R data, develop data tools and products for X-ray and ultraviolet time series datasets, and contribute to scientific research - all in support of NOAA’s space weather forecasting operations and the scientific community.

Q: What is your educational background?
I earned my Ph.D. in astrophysics at the University of Colorado Boulder in 2023. I attained my B.A. in physics, with a specialization in astrophysics, from the University of Chicago in 2013. As a graduate student, I analyzed the properties of Active Galactic Nuclei, which are supermassive black holes that consume nearby matter!

Q: Best advice someone’s given you?
Failure is the greatest teacher. Do not be discouraged by setbacks; rather, see them as opportunities for growth and self-understanding.

Q: Tell us about a hobby of yours.
I love riding motorcycles. Colorado is a great state to explore on two wheels!