My name is Ron Peterson
I have led an amazing life with experiments and risk-taking at every turn. The adventure won't end until I die because trying new things and constantly learning are part of my nature. Check out some highlights below.
Author Background
Caltech, 1963-1967
Graduating from Caltech in 1967 with a BS in Physics, and personal experiences with many Nobel Prize winners.
University of Illinois, 1967- 1972
I received my PhD in condensed matter physics from the University of Illinois in 1972. Learning persistence from many false start doing experiments near absolute zero temperature, I solved a 30-year-mystery in how heat flows.
Honeywell, 1973-2000
At Honeywell I worked on solar energy, laser optics, satellite protection, and after eight promotions was in charge of the entire company's technology. The most impactful products during my time were laser gyroscopes, safety management of refineries and factories, very high-speed electronics, special chips for satellites, fiber optics, and secure computer systems.
An Introvert Learns to Fly
Semi-retired, I traveled, consulted, volunteered, and started to write. My first book, An Introvert Learn to Fly, captures my humble beginnings and the transformation into a free-willed explorer of life. Learning new skills remains a passion.
Rice
Street
Gardens
In 2015 I co-founded the Rice Street Community Gardens, one of the largest community gardens in Minnesota, where more than 260 gardeners grow food for their families. Leaders from three cities see it as a remarkable international venture. The majority of the gardeners are refugees from such countries as Burma, Thailand, Laos and Nepal.
Grand Camps
For the last thirteen years I have led camps for my six young grandchildren, where I have introduced quantum mechanics and microbiology as well as cooking, photography, music, and travel experiences. I have an innate ability to explain deep science in clear images, a trait crucial in my career, in teaching, and in writing this series of books. To be sure my classes were up-to-date I recently completed three certificate programs from MIT and Stanford.
Gardeners of the Universe Published 2019, Reprint 2022
Gardeners of the Universe is a science-fiction novel about hidden forces shaping the future of life on Earth. Aliens compete in the space around us, a tiny black hole is planted at the center of the planet, and genetic experimentation is beginning to change what it means to be human. It blends adventure with big questions like how people will survive long-term.
Miriam
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I live with my wife, Miriam, in Minnesota, where she tries to keep my feet on the ground while my head remains in the stars.
