A British astronomer has been found dead in Chile after going missing during a research trip.
Thomas Marsh had been visiting La Silla Observatory, in the outskirts of the Atacama Desert, when he disappeared on 16 September.
After an extensive search, local authorities found the body of the 60-year-old Warwick University professor around three miles away from the observatory.
Local police gave their condolences to Prof Marsh’s family, who are in northern Chile, having travelled there to assist in the search operation.
Warwick University confirmed a body had been found, but that formal identification was yet to take place.
Provost Christine Ennew said that it was “deeply distressing” news for Prof Marsh’s family, as well as the university’s wider community.
“I know what a terrible time this is for the colleagues who knew Tom and counted him as a close friend as well as an inspirational academic and mentor,” she said.
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“For anyone who has been impacted by today’s news, please do use the wellbeing support that’s there to help you during this difficult time.”
The Foreign Office said it is in contact with the local authorities and support is being offered to Prof Marsh’s family.
