Alwyn Robbins

Alwyn Rudolph Robbins (5 January 1920 – 9 or 10 January 2002) was a British geodesist and former chairman of the Royal Society’s subcommittee on geodesy. Born in Lydney, Gloucestershire, he attended Blundell's School and later Hertford College at the University of Oxford, where he earned degrees in mathematics, including Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Doctor of Philosophy.

During World War II, Robbins served as a commissioned officer in the Survey Branch of the Royal Engineers in West Africa. After the war, he returned to Oxford, advancing through academic ranks to become a reader and head of the surveying and geodesy department by 1966. His research focused on geodesy and timekeeping, including developing precise formulae for long lines on Earth’s ellipsoid and studying the geoid shape through astronomical observations.

Robbins authored works on geodesy and photogrammetry, contributed to geodetic astronomy, and designed a portable printing chronometer. He held leadership roles in the International Association of Geodesy, representing the UK internationally and serving as a delegate to various conferences and assemblies. He also held visiting professorships at institutions worldwide.

In 1980, Robbins retired from Oxford as an emeritus fellow of St Cross College. Recognized for his contributions, he was elected Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, Royal Astronomical Society, and Royal Geographical Society. After retirement, he pursued fly-fishing in Devon. He died at his home in Ottery St Mary, survived by his wife Mary and children Mike and Rowena.