Joseph Devaux (1902-1936) Meteorologist at Pic du Midi Observatory

TL;DR

This paper reviews the life and scientific contributions of Joseph Devaux, a pioneering meteorologist and researcher at Pic du Midi Observatory, highlighting his work on snow, glaciers, and atmospheric physics.

Contribution

It presents a detailed biography and scientific legacy of Devaux, emphasizing his pioneering research and role in polar expeditions, which was previously underrecognized.

Findings

Devaux was a pioneer in snow and glacier studies.

He contributed significantly to atmospheric physics research.

He participated in polar expeditions with Commandant Charcot.

Abstract

Joseph Devaux, who held a position of assistant-meteorologist at Pic du Midi Observatory, had an outstanding career. He devoted his life to the Pic and to scientific research. A pioneer of the study of snow and glaciers, he also pursued research in many fields of atmospheric physics. He was the physicist with Commandant Charcot polar expeditions but was lost at sea (when the Pourquoi-Pas ? sank) before he was able to use his talents to the full.