The Space Telescope Science Institute congratulates Dr. Riccardo Giacconi, the Institute's first Director, on his selection for the 2002 Nobel Prize in Physics. Dr. Giacconi is a pioneer of X-ray astronomy and the discoverer of the X-ray background and numerous cosmic X-ray sources, from neutron stars and stellar black holes to quasars.

Dr. Giacconi is responsible for building STScI from its inception, serving as Director from 1981 to 1993. During this period, which included the launch and early years of operation of the Hubble Space Telescope, he created a pre-eminent institution for science operations of major space observatories and scientific research.

The Institute's staff is proud of Dr. Giacconi's accomplishments. We are committed to continuing in the spirit which he created, providing outstanding service to the astronomical community and scientific research of the highest caliber.

(Read the press release)