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 staff astronomer at Brown University's Ladd Observatory, a role she has held since her return to Rhode Island after completing her formal education. In this position, she is responsible for guiding visitors through the observatory when it is open to the public, and answering questions about the building's exhibits. 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 from 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. Addditionally, 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 contributes to public programming and educational initiatives. A NASA Solar System Ambassador, she has also taught astronomy at various colleges in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and serves as a professional proofreader for independent court stenographers, reviewing legal and medical documents as well as books. She also is an assessor with the National External Diploma Program. Her 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 Ladd Skies, and has been producing weekly editions since then. Ms. Jackson also edits and contributes articles for Clear Skies Magazine, published by Brown University's Physics Department, which recently transitioned from monthly to quarterly publication.

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, in all of which she is an active member. Including the planetarium organizations, she is also active in her town's Conservation Commission, and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Furthermore, Ms. Jackson serves as the secretary for the Blackstone Valley Historical Society, and is a board member of the Blackstone River Watershed Council/Friends of the Blackstone.

Beyond her professional ventures, Ms. Jackson's civic engagements include 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 Sky Observing at River Bend Farm in Uxbridge, MA, with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation and the National Park Service; she created The Train Wreck That Changed Time, a PowerPoint presentation that documents the origin of time zones, shown at venues including University of Rhode Island Alternative Education and local libraries; Introduction to Astronomy programs, such as Starry Starry Night at Chase Farm Park, Lincoln, RI, and Night Observing at Winman Middle School.

Ms. Jackson has received writing awards from the Seidel Griffith Observer Science Writing Contest. Among her most notable accomplishments, however, was having asteroid 15022 Francinejackson 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.

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