LINCOLN, RI, August 29, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Francine Jackson has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Ms. Jackson serves as a staff astronomer at the Ladd Observatory at Brown University, a role she has held since her return to Rhode Island after completing her formal education. In this position, she is responsible for proofreading, hosting star parties, conducting all-weather events for various organizations and guiding visitors through the observatory when it is open to the public. Ms. Jackson also answers questions about exhibits and uses her portable telescope to introduce individuals to different features of the night sky. Her commitment to public engagement extends beyond the observatory, as she actively participates in outreach efforts that foster appreciation for astronomy.

Earlier in her career, Ms. Jackson dedicated two decades to teaching night classes at the American Museum of Natural History's Hayden Planetarium in New York City. For 20 years, she commuted from Rhode Island, taking the train into New Haven, Connecticut, and then returning home after teaching, ensuring she was present for work the following morning. During this period, she educated diverse groups of students of all ages, helping them discover the wonders of the night sky. Ms. Jackson has been a strong advocate for dark sky preservation and supports locations where stargazing remains possible despite increasing light pollution.

Ms. Jackson's professional journey also included significant involvement with Skyscrapers Inc., the Amateur Astronomical Society of Rhode Island, where she contributed to public programming and educational initiatives. She has also taught astronomy at Framingham State University in Massachusetts and served as a professional proofreader for Rhode Island State's National External Diploma Program, reviewing legal and medical documents as well as books. Ms. Jackson's expertise in teaching, writing, and planetarium operations is widely recognized.
Ms. Jackson's academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in astronomy from the University of Illinois in 1972 and a master's degree in adult education from the University of Rhode Island in 1992. Her early interest in astronomy began at age eight when she discovered science books at her local library. Despite societal expectations and limited career options for women at that time, Ms. Jackson pursued her passion for astronomy with determination.

After graduating from college, Ms. Jackson joined the Amateur Astronomy Association and soon became involved with Ladd Observatory through volunteer work. More than 20 years ago, she was asked to write a regular newsletter for Ladd Observatory called Lab Notes and has consistently produced weekly editions since then. Ms. Jackson also edits and contributes articles to Astronomy Magazine published by Brown University's physics department, which transitioned from monthly to quarterly issues under her editorial guidance, and to Clear Skies Magazine.

In addition to her affiliation with the Amateur Astronomy Association, Ms. Jackson has been recognized as a fellow by the Middle Atlantic Planetarium Society, the Great Lakes Planetarium Society and the International Planetarium Society. She is also an active member of several professional organizations, including the Middle Atlantic Planetarium Society, the Great Lakes Planetarium Society, the International Planetarium Society, the Town of Lincoln Conservation Commission and, among others, the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Furthermore, Ms. Jackson serves as the secretary for the Blackstone Valley Historical Society and as a board member for the Friends of the Blackstone.

Beyond her professional ventures, Ms. Jackson civic engagement includes participation with Rhode Island 250 and leadership roles within historical and conservation organizations in her community. She has also hosted numerous educational programs, such as Night Observing at River Bend Park and River Bend Farm, The Train Wreck That Changed Time at venues including University of Rhode Island Alternative Education, Cranston Library and East Providence, Introduction to Astronomy, Starry Starry Night at Chase Park, and Night Observing at Winman Middle School.

Ms. Jackson has received writing awards from Griffith Observer. Among her most notable accomplishments, however, was having Asteroid 10522 Francine Jackson named in her honor, reflecting her impact on the field of astronomy. Throughout her life and career, Ms. Jackson has demonstrated resilience and dedication to lifelong learning despite challenges faced due to societal perceptions or personal circumstances. Her motivation and eclectic interests have shaped a fulfilling journey marked by service to science education and community engagement.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. The suite of Marquis® publications, including Who's Who in America® and Who's Who in the World®, remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the globe. Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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