Hambeleleni Davids reaches for the stars

Hailing from the little settlement of Okongo in the Ohangwena region, Dr Hambeleleni Davids is a notable Namibian astrophysicist and senior lecturer of physics at the University of Namibia (Unam). She is also a research scientist at the University of Manchester.Davids employs theoretical frameworks and mathematical modelling to explore high-energy phenomena in space, especially those linked to millisecond pulsars and globular clusters.Davids recently said many misunderstand the field, thinking astrophysics is simply about gazing at stars through telescopes.“Many people think astrophysics is about staring at the stars with a telescope, but a lot of our work is theoretical. We predict and model cosmic events so large-scale telescopes can know where to point,” she explained. Multimillion-dollar observatories like the High Energy Stereoscopic System (H.E.S.S.), which is situated right here in Namibia, benefit from her research.Davids models the interaction of surrounding radiation fields with electrons from collapsing stars to produce gamma rays, which are among the universe's most intense forms of light. “We basically ask: if I were an electron, how would I move and what would I produce? Davids explained. Life-changing field tripDavids didn't initially aim to become an astrophysicist. She started her academic path aiming to focus on electrical engineering, but after exploring geology and physics, she developed a passion for space science during a class trip to H.E.S.S. “It was life-changing to see telescopes doing real science in my own country.”Her path hasn’t been free of obstacles. As a woman working in a male-dominated area while managing academic pressures alongside personal life, she has discovered empowerment through community and faith. “It’s important to stay consistent and surround yourself with people who want to see you win,” she said.She actively mentors young scientists, particularly girls, inspiring them to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. “You don’t have to be perfect or a genius. You need passion, curiosity and the willingness to keep going, even when it gets hard," she advised. Davids says enthusiasm, a sense of wonder and determination are essential, especially when challenges arise. For her, astrophysics is more than a career; it’s a way of exploring human potential.“We need more African voices in space science," she said. "The universe belongs to all of us."

Hambeleleni Davids reaches for the stars

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Republikein 2025-12-19

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Hambeleleni Davids reaches for the stars

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