An official inquiry has commenced after the death of a well-known astronomy figure who was killed in a road traffic accident.

Brazell was making his way to a nighttime observation gathering in North Norfolk on March 16 when his car was involved in a fatal crash with a large truck.

The 68-year-old was a dedicated hobbyist astronomer, having held the position of chairman at the Abingdon Astronomical Society and served as president of the Webb Society starting in 2019.

The respected Faringdon local had also given talks at various other astronomical groups and regularly wrote pieces for Astronomy Now magazine.

Reports indicate he was travelling to the Kelling Heath Star Party that morning, a gathering where amateur astronomers meet to observe the night sky, trade equipment and socialise.

Legal proceedings regarding Brazell’s death commenced at Oxfordshire Coroner’s Court on April 2.

The court heard that he was born in Toronto, Canada, worked in systems architecture and lived in Faringdon.

His death was recorded as being caused by multiple injuries.

The case was adjourned to allow a full investigation to proceed on July 8 at 8am.

Messages of remembrance were shared after Brazell’s passing.

Steve Creasy, speaking on behalf of the Abingdon Astronomical Society, said he had vast expertise in deep sky observation and regularly participated in the spring and autumn star camps held at Kielder and Kelling.

He had been involved with the Abingdon Astronomical Society since the 1990s and played a pivotal role as chairman.

Sincere sympathy was extended to his family and all who knew him. He will be greatly missed by everyone connected to the society.

He also said his loss would be felt throughout the British astronomy community and especially by those who considered him a friend. Owen had earned his place among the stars and could now rest peacefully.

Amateur astronomer Theodore Thomas Tsikas said Owen would be remembered by the many friends he had made through the Abingdon Astronomical Society, where he had inspired many with his passion, thorough knowledge, sense of duty and humour.

He wished he could have shown his appreciation while Brazell was still alive. His thoughts went out to his family.

Cristina Garcia Pozuelo Sanchez shared that Owen was already missed and thanked him for developing an interest in photographing the night sky and for being willing to discuss smart telescopes.

She expressed gratitude for his willingness to share his expertise and for being a friend and mentor in astronomy.

The Society for Popular Astronomy said amateur astronomy had lost another star with Brazell’s passing, describing him as a recognised deep-sky observer.

A spokesperson stated that Owen had served as president of the Webb Society, an organisation focused on deep-sky work, and had been an important member of the BAA Deep Sky Section.

Owen had earned broad recognition throughout British amateur astronomy and had recently been present at the Practical Astronomy Show where he encountered numerous friends.