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About

Dr. Sam Wright is a pioneering figure in citizen science and astronomy education, best known for leading the ORBYTS (Original Research by Young Twinkle Students) program, which empowers secondary school students to conduct genuine astrophysical research. Their most cited work, "Ephemeris Refinement of Transiting Exoplanets II" (2020, 10 citations), exemplifies this groundbreaking approach by reporting follow-up observations of four transiting exoplanets—TRES-2 b, HAT-P-22 b, HAT-P-36 b, and XO-2 b—using the Las Cumbres Observatory Global Telescope Network. This paper not only refined orbital ephemerides critical for future characterization studies but also demonstrated that students can produce publishable, high-impact science. Wright’s major contribution lies in democratizing access to professional-grade research, proving that young learners can make meaningful contributions to exoplanet science. While their citation count reflects the niche but vital nature of this work, its true impact is measured in the dozens of students inspired to pursue STEM careers. Wright’s innovative model has been adopted internationally, making them a leading advocate for inclusive, hands-on astronomy education.