Professor Ken Freeman was awarded the Henry Norris Russell Lectureship for his lifetime of contributions to the science.

“Many of my old friends, mentors and colleagues are on the list of past recipients of this prize, and it is a great pleasure to be listed with them,” he said.

The Perth-born academic's work established that most of the universe is made up of dark matter.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Young said Professor Freeman had been pivotal in the course of astrophysical study in Australia and abroad.

"He is a deserving recipient of this prestigious award and on behalf of the entire ANU community, I give him our warmest congratulations,” he said.