National University of Mexico | Mexico
Dr. Héctor Pérez-de-Tejada is an esteemed researcher and professor at the Institute of Geophysics, UNAM, Mexico. He holds a Doctorate in Space Sciences from the University of Colorado, Boulder and has been a faculty member at UNAM since 1970. As the first Ph.D. in Space Physics at UNAM, he has played a pioneering role in the development of space science research in Mexico.
Profile
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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓
Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada’s academic journey began at the National University of Mexico (UNAM), where he completed his undergraduate studies at the School of Sciences. He furthered his education at the University of Colorado, where he obtained his Doctorate in Space Sciences. His early academic experiences set the foundation for his lifelong passion for planetary science and space physics, leading him to specialize in the interaction of the solar wind with planetary ionospheres.
Professional Endeavors 🌍
Since 1970, Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada has dedicated his career to research and education. He became a faculty member in Space Sciences at UNAM and also contributed to the University of Baja California in Ensenada. Throughout his career, he has been involved in cutting-edge space missions, including working as a guest investigator on NASA’s Pioneer Venus Orbiter and contributing to data analysis from the Venus Express spacecraft of the European Space Agency (ESA). His pioneering work in solar wind momentum transport and plasma dynamics has greatly advanced our understanding of planetary atmospheres.
Contributions and Research Focus 🔬
Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada has made over 100 significant publications, focusing on the interaction of solar wind with planetary ionospheres such as those of Venus, Mars, and comets. His work on the viscous transport of solar wind momentum in the Venus ionosheath and the discovery of plasma vortices in the Venus wake, over 40 years ago, have made a lasting impact in the field. He also proposed the theory of plasma channels over the magnetic poles of Venus, driven by the fluid dynamic Magnus force.
Impact and Influence 🌟
Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada’s work has had a transformative impact on the field of space science, particularly in the study of planetary ionospheres and solar wind interactions. His discoveries, such as the existence of plasma vortices and ionospheric holes on Venus, have influenced both contemporary studies and space mission design. His involvement in NASA and ESA missions reflects the international recognition of his work. He has also been a strong advocate for the development of space science infrastructure in Mexico, enhancing its visibility and global standing.
Academic Cites 📚
Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada’s publications have been widely cited in the field of space physics, with references in over 100 academic articles that build upon his theories of plasma dynamics and solar wind interaction. His work remains foundational for ongoing research on planetary atmospheres, especially with regard to Venus and Mars.
Research Skills 🧑🔬
Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada’s research is marked by advanced data analysis and theoretical modeling in space sciences. His extensive experience in using data from spacecraft missions such as the Pioneer Venus Orbiter and Venus Express has refined his ability to interpret complex plasma data. His research into the fluid dynamics and Magnus forces on planetary ionospheres demonstrates a deep understanding of both theoretical physics and practical spacecraft data collection.
Teaching Experience 🏫
A dedicated educator, Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada has mentored 15 students in undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs at UNAM and the University of Baja California. His students have gone on to make their own contributions in space science, a testament to his ability to inspire and guide the next generation of scientists and researchers. He has also taught and published two academic books, providing invaluable resources for those studying space sciences.
Awards and Honors 🏅
Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada has received numerous accolades in recognition of his work, including a celebration of his 50th anniversary of academic activities at UNAM and being distinguished at the National Workshop in Astrophysics in Mexico, which was named in his honor. His longstanding commitment to space science has been acknowledged both nationally and internationally, further solidifying his status as a leader in the field.
Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱
Dr. Pérez-de-Tejada’s legacy extends beyond his academic publications and mentorship. He was instrumental in the creation of the first ionospheric sounder in Mexico and the acquisition of a planetarium at UNAM. These contributions have helped raise the profile of space sciences in Mexico and contributed to public engagement with astronomy. His future work will likely continue to inspire young scientists while enhancing our understanding of planetary atmospheres and the broader universe.
Publications Top Notes
Wave-Particle Interactions in Astrophysical Plasmas
Measurement of plasma channels in the Venus wake
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Authors: H. Pérez-De-Tejada, Héctor; R.N. Lundin, Rickard N.; Y. Futaana, Yoshifumi; T. Zhang, Tielong
Journal: Icarus
Year: 2019
Pluto’s plasma wake oriented away from the ecliptic plane
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Authors: H. Pérez-De-Tejada, Héctor; H.J. Durand-Manterola, Héctor Javier; M. Reyes-Ruiz, Mauricio; R.N. Lundin, Rickard N.
Journal: Icarus
Year: 2015
A large-scale flow vortex in the Venus plasma tail and its fluid dynamic interpretation
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Authors: R.N. Lundin, Rickard N.; S.V. Barabash, Stanislav V.; Y. Futaana, Yoshifumi; H. Pérez-De-Tejada, Héctor; J.A. Sauvaud, Jean André
Journal: Geophysical Research Letters
Year: 2013
Solar wind-driven plasma fluxes from the Venus ionosphere
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Authors: H. Pérez-De-Tejada, Héctor; R.N. Lundin, Rickard N.; H.J. Durand-Manterola, Héctor Javier; J.A. Sauvaud, Jean André; M. Reyes-Ruiz, Mauricio
Journal: Journal of Geophysical Research: Space Physics
Year: 2013