Klaus Pinkau

Klaus Pinkau (1930–2021) was a renowned physicist and academic, serving as Professor at Technische Universität München (1969 onward) and holding directorial roles at major research institutes. He was Scientific Director of the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics (1981–1999) and Director of the Max Planck Institute of Extraterrestrial Physics (1972–1977). His research focused on gamma-ray astronomy and plasma physics, contributing to foundational work in high-energy astrophysics.

Education: PhD in Physics from the University of Bristol (1958), followed by habilitation and Privatdozent title at Christian-Albrechts-Universität Kiel (1960). Visiting Professor at Louisiana State University (1964–1965).

Research interests centered on gamma-ray astronomy, plasma physics, and astrophysical phenomena. His work integrated observational and theoretical approaches to understand cosmic radiation and space plasmas.

• Awards:
• 1985 Honorary doctorate from University of Bristol
• 1988 Fellow of the American Physical Society
• 1997 Wilhelm-Exner Medal
• 2001 Bavarian Maximilian Order

Led major research institutions, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in physics and space science. His legacy includes pioneering contributions to gamma-ray astronomy and leadership in German and international scientific communities.