Domina Eberle Spencer

Domina Eberle Spencer (September 26, 1920 – 2022) was an American mathematician who was Professor at the University of Connecticut.

Biography Spencer was born on September 26, 1920, and earned her Ph.D. in 1942 from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology under the supervision of Dirk Jan Struik. She worked on electrodynamics and field theory.

Spencer made significant contributions to the field of lighting design research, particularly through her research on the visual perception of light. Working alongside her husband, Parry Moon, Spencer co-authored several books and papers that explored various aspects of electrodynamics, field theory and introduced holors. Their collaborative work, such as The Photic Field (1981), delved into the physical and physiological effects of light, providing a foundational understanding that has influenced modern lighting standards and practices.

Spencer's research extended to practical applications in lighting, contributing to the development of more efficient and visually comfortable lighting systems. Her work is recognized for integrating rigorous scientific principles with practical engineering solutions, enhancing the quality and functionality of lighting in various environments. Additionally, her contributions are noted in discussions on lighting design innovations, as highlighted by peers in the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), who acknowledge her influence on contemporary lighting research and standards. She was awarded the distinction of IES Fellow in 1962 for valuable contributions to the art and science of illumination. Her death, at age 101, was reported by the University of Connecticut in May 2022.