minorplanetcenter.net/db_search/show_object?object_id=3637 World-renowned Astronomer A renowned visual astronomer, Stephen is globally recognized for his legendary eyesight and observational prowess. Among his many astronomical achievements, Stephen was the first to sight Halley’s Comet on its 1985 return and the first person to determine the rotation period of the distant planet Uranus. One of his most distinguished feats was the visual detection of the mysterious spokes in Saturn’s B-ring before the Voyager spacecraft imaged them.
Awards Stephen has been honored with several awards, including the prestigious Lone Star Gazer Award "for setting the standard of excellence in visual observing," the Omega Centauri Award "for advancing astronomy through observation, writing, and promotion, and for sharing his love of the sky", and the Caroline Herschel Award for his planetary discoveries. The International Astronomical Union named Asteroid 3637 O’Meara in his honor.