Nvidia's New AI Chip 'Rubin': A Nod to Renowned Dark Matter Astronomer

The next-generation AI chip is named after dark matter astronomer, Vera Rubin.

Mar 14, 2025
Nvidia's New AI Chip 'Rubin': A Nod to Renowned Dark Matter Astronomer
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Nvidia is set to launch its new next-generation AI chip, and will name it after the renowned astronomer Vera Rubin. Born in Philadelphia in 1928, Vera Rubin's exceptional academic achievements, contribution, and profound impact on the scientific community make her a shining example behind this naming.

Following a Legend's Path 

Vera Rubin's academic career was marked by legendary achievers, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in astronomy from Vassar College, a Master's degree from Cornell University, and ultimately a PhD from Georgetown University. After teaching at Georgetown for several years, she joined the Carnegie Institution for Science, becoming the first female researcher in the Department of Terrestrial Magnetism.

Vera continued to make groundbreaking progress in the field of dark matter research. Her research not only brought a new perspective to the scientific community but also fundamentally changed humanity's understanding of the universe. Her profound and extensive academic contributions, encompassing 114 published papers, demonstrate her deep expertise in astronomy.

Vera's outstanding achievements go beyond her scientific contributions. She was a staunch advocate for gender equality, dedicating much of her life to promoting gender equality in science, fighting for more opportunities, and recognition for women scientists. Her efforts and perseverance have served as a role model for subsequent generations of women scientists, inspiring countless women to pursue careers in science.

Nvidia's name choice is seen as a masterstroke in its line of innovative AI chips.