David Hughes (astronomer)

He wrote on the history of astronomy, the origin of the Solar System and the impact threat to planet Earth.

Hughes often appeared on TV, most notably with the live coverage of the ESA Giotto space mission to Halley's Comet.

This was based on his book The Star of Bethlehem: an astronomer's confirmation, Walker, Pocket, Dent, Corgi, 1979.

He enjoyed giving astronomy talks on cruise ships where, on many occasions, he represented the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC.

Hughes enjoyed collecting livery buttons, Chinese ceramics and cast-iron railway signs.