Thomas J. Balonek is a professor of physics and astronomy at Colgate University.^[2] He studies optical and radio emissions from galactic centers and quasars, and is a multiple discoverer of minor planets.^[3]

He is credited by the Minor Planet Center with the discovery of 9 minor planets made at Kitt Peak and Foggy Bottom Observatory during 1991–1995, respectively.^[1] His first discovery was the main-belt asteroid 6452 Johneuller in 1991.^[4]

His favorite sports are hockey and lacrosse, although he plays neither of them.^{[citation needed]}