Bengaluru, NFAPost: In a significant recognition of Indian talent in the field of astronomy, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) has recently named four minor planets after distinguished individuals from India. Among them is Aswin Sekhar, a 38-year-old Malayali astronomer hailing from Palakkad. Aswin Sekhar’s contributions to the study of meteoroid stream dynamics, particularly in relation to the effects of relativity and resonances, have garnered acclaim in the scientific community.
The IAU, through its Working Group Small Bodies Nomenclature (WGSBN), announced the names of the newly designated planets as Ashokverma, Kumar, Rutuparekh, and Aswinsekhar. Aswin Sekhar, affiliated with the renowned Paris Observatory under the government of France, earned recognition for his remarkable discovery of asteroid 2000LJ27.
As per the WGSBN bulletin, Aswin Sekhar holds the distinction of being the first professional meteor astronomer from India in modern times. His groundbreaking research and expertise have significantly advanced the understanding of meteoroid stream dynamics. Specifically, his work on the influence of relativity and resonances within these streams has proven invaluable to the field.
Among the other Indian honorees by the IAU is Ashok Kumar Verma, an astrophysicist, whose notable contributions have earned him this prestigious recognition. Additionally, Kumar Venkataramani, an esteemed astronomer at CalTech, specializes in spectroscopic observations of comets and asteroids. The IAU has also honoured Rutu Parekh, a distinguished Indian planetary scientist whose expertise lies in comprehending the surface evolution of icy satellites and asteroids.
Prior to these recent additions, the IAU had previously named five celestial bodies after notable Indians. The list includes Nobel laureates Subramanya Chandrasekhar and CV Raman, revered mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, esteemed space scientist Vikram Sarabhai, and accomplished astronomer Manali Kallat Vainu Bappu.
The International Astronomical Union, an esteemed association of astronomers, has a fundamental mission to promote and safeguard the science of astronomy in all its facets. This includes research, communication, education, and development. As part of its responsibilities, the IAU is entrusted with the task of designating names to celestial bodies, symbolizing the recognition of exceptional contributions made by individuals in the field of astronomy.
The recognition bestowed upon Aswin Sekhar, along with his fellow Indian honorees, not only highlights the immense talent within the Indian astronomical community but also underscores the country’s growing prominence in the field of space exploration and scientific research.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on the latest bulletin of the Working Group Small Bodies Nomenclature (WGSBN) by the International Astronomical Union (IAU) as of June 26, 2023.
