Beyond his research, Hughes' teaching specialised in the history of astronomy, solar and planetary studies and geophysics. He was one of a small group of staff who established astronomy as a separate degree subject within Sheffield University's Physics department (now Physics and Astronomy). He progressed to a chair (professorship) and was given an emeritus chair on retirement.
Hughes often appeared on TV, most notably with the live coverage of the ESA Giotto space mission to Halley's Comet. He also appeared on Christmas day TV, between the Queen's address and a Queen concert, discussing his interpretation of the biblical Christmas story. This was based on his book The Star of Bethlehem: an astronomer's confirmation, Walker, Pocket, Dent, Corgi, 1979. After retiring Hughes spent his life in Sheffield writing about astronomy and as a member of the Royal Astronomical Society's Astronomy Heritage Committee. He enjoyed giving astronomy talks on cruise ships where, on many occasions, he represented the Smithsonian MuseuminWashington DC.
Personal life
Hughes enjoyed collecting livery buttons, Chinese ceramics and cast-iron railway signs. He is survived by his wife Carole Stott, who also writes on astronomy, and their two children, Ellen and Owen.
Cometary Physics, taken at the time of the 1989 research bazaar at the Hicks Building.
Cometary Physics, taken at the time of the 1989 research bazaar at the Hicks Building.
David Hughes explaining concepts to University students at the 1989 research bazaar, Hicks Building.
David W. Hughes explaining the images of the nucleus of P/Halley to final year BSc Combined Honours Physics and Astronomy students. Taken at the 1989 research bazaar, Hicks building.
Cometary Physics, D59. David W. Hughes' research students door. Taken at the time of the 1990 research bazaar at the Hicks Building.
Neil McBrIde and Peter Jalowiczor; David W. Hughes' research students preparing for the 1990 research bazaar.
Neil Mc Bride and Peter Jalowiczor, research students of David W. Hughes. Taken at the research bazaar, Hicks Building, 1990.
James Boswell and Neil McBrIde; David W. Hughes' research students preparing for the 1991 research bazaar.
Cometary Physics taken at the time of the 1991 research bazaar at the Hicks Building.
David W. Hughes presenting his work to students. Taken at the research bazaar, Hicks Building, 1991.