Prof. Dr. Jörg Pfleiderer (1931 – 2021)

Since 1965 - and thus for over 55 years - Jörg Pfleiderer was a highly respected member of the Astronomical Society, as well as a member of the IAU. At the University of Innsbruck, he shaped astronomy for over 25 years as Professor of Astronomy and Director of the Institute of Astronomy from 1974-1999. As a pioneer in the field of galaxy interactions, he initiated important steps towards the symbiosis of astrophysics and particle physics. His contributions to the integration of astronomy into physics in research and teaching still bear fruit today and will be remembered. Since 1997 he was a Real Member of the Mathematical and Natural Sciences Class of the Austrian Academy of Sciences and a Member of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts. His research and publications extended beyond astronomy to fields such as image processing and behavioral biology. Through popular scientific works - such as "Astronomy for Everyone" and "Origin and Future of the Universe" - he has also familiarized a broad public with modern cosmic research. We will honor his memory.