Christmas is a day marked by joy, love, and cherishing. We should extend those feelings to one Mr. Grote Reber. In a 1937 Illinois backyard, Reber constructed the first radio telescope dedicated to astronomy. In 1939, he received the first radio contact from outer space. His contributions in this remarkable field have allowed for the discovery of such cosmic entities as quasars, pulsars, and the remnant glow of the Big Bang. A more encompassing understanding of the cosmos has been acquired, thanks to his innovative efforts.
Certainly his input into this field will not go unknown, as we must extend the solace of Christmas joy to his mourning family this holiday. Grote Reber was 90 years old. May he rest in peace.