Nigel Metcalfe

I have been a professional astronomer all my career. I gained my undergraduate degree in physics and a postgraduate degree in astrophysics, studying cluster of galaxies, both from Oxford University. I moved to Durham University over 40 years ago and have worked there ever since, studying various aspects of observational cosmology. One privilege of this life has been the ability to visit various observatories in stunning locations around the world.

I have also been an enthusiastic amateur astronomy since I was a child, and now have my own back garden observatory.

I joined Kielder Observatory as a trustee in 2013 and stood down after my statuary 9 years in 2022. However, I was asked to rejoin in late 2024.

Outside of astronomy, I am a sponsor of the Wensleydale Heritage Railway in the North Yorkshire, and now I am semi-retired I spend a lot of time in the summer playing or watching cricket.