Bengaluru, 23 January 2025: India is celebrating 125 years of solar physics research with an international conference held in Bengaluru from 20–24 January 2025. Organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the event marks the anniversary of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO), a landmark institution in Indian astronomy established in 1899.
Over 200 solar scientists, including 100 students and 70 international participants, have come together to discuss critical topics like solar magnetism, solar-stellar connections, and the impact of solar activity on space weather.
Preserving a Legacy, Advancing Research
The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory has played a pivotal role in studying sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections. Its vast photographic archives and contributions to global solar research were highlighted at the conference. Recent efforts to digitize KSO’s historic records and contributions to India’s Aditya-L1 solar mission were also discussed.
Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), emphasized upcoming projects, including the proposed National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) at Pangong Tso in Ladakh, which promises to advance solar astrophysics research significantly.
Former ISRO Chairman, Shri A.S. Kiran Kumar, urged the scientific community to develop innovative instruments for space-based solar studies, reiterating ISRO’s commitment to supporting solar research initiatives.
Global Collaboration and Discussions
The conference features a diverse program of presentations, discussions, and poster sessions led by eminent solar physicists. Themes include long-term solar magnetism, high-resolution studies, energetic solar phenomena, and the heliosphere’s influence on space weather.
International perspectives were shared by Prof. John Leibacher from the National Solar Observatory, USA, who praised KSO’s unique contribution to global solar science. He also expressed the international community’s support for India’s proposed NLST project.
Public Engagement
As part of the event, a public lecture by Prof. Nat Gopalswamy of NASA Goddard Space Flight Center will be held at CHRIST University on 23 January. Open to students and the public, the talk will delve into the fascinating aspects of the Sun and its influence on our planet.
Looking Ahead
This conference not only celebrates the legacy of Indian solar research but also aims to foster international collaboration in understanding the Sun and its interactions with the solar system. With global experts in attendance, the event underscores India’s pivotal role in advancing solar astrophysics on the world stage.
