Astronom Kazimierz Czernis awarded Senate Medal of Poland

Astronom Dr. Kazimierz Czernis has been awarded the Senate Medal of the Republic of Poland for his significant contributions to astronomy. Czernis, a Polish citizen with Lithuanian citizenship based at Vilnius University, has discovered or co-discovered more than 250 asteroids and 25 comets.

During the ceremony held at the Senate, the medal was accepted on his behalf by his daughter, Alina Černyte, as the astronomer was unable to attend in person. The award was presented by Senate Marshal Małgorzata Kidawa-Błońska following nominations from the Polish Astronomical Society and the Polish Society of Amateur Astronomers.

Czernis is noted for naming many of his discoveries after figures and locations related to Polish and Lithuanian history, including Henryk Sienkiewicz and various historical figures. His scientific work also includes the discovery of object 420356 Praamżius, located beyond Neptune, which is considered a candidate for a dwarf planet.