Roberto Orosei has been named AGU's 2024 Biogeoscience Section Carl Sagan Lecture recipient. The Carl Sagan Lecture is presented annually and recognizes a scientist who embodies Carl Sagan’s interest in astrobiology, as well as his effective science communication skills. This lecture honors the life of Carl Sagan, an astronomer and astrophysicist who was a leader in establishing the field of astrobiology. Sagan was also a tireless educator, author, and advocate for the space sciences.

AGU, the world's largest Earth and space science association, celebrates individuals and teams through its annual Honors and Recognition program for their accomplishments in research, education, science communication, and outreach. These honorees have transformed our understanding of the world, impacted our everyday lives, improved our communities and contributed to solutions for a sustainable future.

Orosei's research focuses on the nature, structure and origin of planetary surfaces and subsurfaces, focusing on the search of water and ice on Mars to assess its past and current habitability. He is a science team member of space experiments for the Rosetta and Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer missions of the European Space Agency, and for NASA's Cassini, Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, Dawn and Juno probes. He is the principal investigator of the MARSIS radar on board ESA's Mars Express spacecraft, which provided evidence of the presence of liquid water beneath the South polar cap of Mars.

"I feel deeply honored by this recognition. I am still amazed at how actual Sagan's reflections on science, society and the human condition are even today," said Orosei. "He seems almost prescient when he describes the future of society in an information economy. However, my favorite quote still remains “Science is not only compatible with spirituality; it is a profound source of spirituality.”"

Roberto Orosei joins a distinguished group of scientists, leaders and communicators recognized by AGU for advancing science. Each honoree reflects AGU's vision for a thriving, sustainable and equitable future supported by scientific discovery, innovation and action.

Honorees will be recognized at AGU24, which will convene more than 25,000 attendees from over 100 countries in Washington, D.C. and online everywhere on 9-13 December 2024. Reflecting the theme 'What's Next for Science' at AGU24, the Honors Reception will recognize groundbreaking achievements that illustrate science's continual advancement, inspiring the AGU community with their stories and successes.