SW New Mexico News

The New Mexico State University (NMSU) Board of Regents is set to honor alumnus Gale Allen Harvey with an honorary Doctor of Science degree. This recognition comes as a tribute to Harvey's long-standing support for the university and his contributions to science. The award will be presented by NMSU Interim President Mónica Torres during the commencement ceremonies scheduled for 6 p.m. on Friday, December 13, at the Pan American Center.

Sylvia Y. Acosta, CEO of the NMSU Foundation, remarked, "We proudly honor Gale Harvey for his outstanding service and support to both the university and the Foundation. This honorary doctorate reflects his ongoing dedication to advancing education and his legacy of generosity in supporting our Aggies. He’s helped countless students achieve their dreams, and we are truly grateful."

Gale Allen Harvey's academic journey began with a $400 scholarship from the NMSU Department of Physics after graduating from Alamogordo High School. He earned a bachelor's degree in physics from NMSU in 1962 and later obtained a master's degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1967. Reflecting on his alma mater, Harvey stated, "I have always felt that NMSU was my only alma mater and the school that opened the most doors for me."

Harvey's career spans over 45 years as a physicist at NASA’s Langley Research Center, where he made significant contributions to space science and atmospheric studies. His research portfolio includes over 20 peer-reviewed publications in journals such as NASA Technical Memoranda, "The Astronomical Journal," "The Astrophysical Journal," "Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific," and "Sky & Telescope." His work has focused on meteor spectroscopy, atmospheric sensing with high-energy lasers, environmental impacts on space vehicles, and shuttle orbiter thermal protection tile repair.

During the 1970s, Harvey led projects involving NASA-NMSU meteor spectra patrol cameras to study meteor trajectories using automated equipment. He maintained ties with NMSU's Department of Physics through initiatives like establishing the Gale A. Harvey Endowed Scholarship in 2007 for physics students with financial need. In recognition of his contributions, room 229 in Gardiner Hall was named after him in 2018.

In addition to his scientific endeavors, Harvey has spent over three decades applying his expertise as a beekeeper, focusing on reducing heat stress in hives through thermal analysis. Now fully dedicated to beekeeping, he rents out hives for pollination services and is involved with the Beekeepers Guild of Southeast Virginia.