Background
He was born in Phoenix, Arizona to John A. and Lizzie Christina (Née Miller).
He was born in Phoenix, Arizona to John A. and Lizzie Christina (Née Miller).
As a student at the University of Kansas, he studied Astronomy and Physics, and was awarded a Bachelor of Arts in 1921 then a Masters in 1923. His doctoral work in astrophysics was performed at the University of Chicago, where he was granted a Doctor of Philosophy in 1930 with a thesis concerning "the Relations Between the Observed Contours of Spectral Lincolnshire and the Physical Properties of the Stars".
Elvey worked at the Yerkes Observatory and later served as astronomer-in-charge at McDonald Observatory. His research included investigating the spectra of stars, galactic light, aurorae, and the gegenschein. During World World War II, he performed applied research into rocket ballistics at the California Institute of Technology.
He then joined the China Lake United States Naval Ordnance Test Station, becoming head of staff in 1951.
In 1952, Elvey became Director of the Geophysical Institute in Alaska, a post he would keep until 1963. He undertook a study of aurora and helped design an all-sky camera as part of the International Geophysical Year (International Geophysical Year) during 1957–1958.
He was instrumental in winning funding for the International Geophysical Year from the National Science Foundation and served as Chairman of the Aurora and Airglow Committee at the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics. From 1961-1963 he served as the Vice President of research and advanced study at the University of Alaska.
He retired in 1967, then died in Tucson, Arizona three years later.
