International Conference Marks 125 Years of Solar Physics Research in India

An international conference titled ‘Sun, Space Weather, and Solar-Stellar Connections’ was held in Bengaluru from January 20 to 24, 2025, to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO). Organized by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), the event gathered over 200 solar physicists from India and abroad to discuss advancements in solar magnetism, solar-stellar connections, and space weather.

Historical Significance

of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

Established in 1899, KSO has been pivotal in advancing solar astrophysics in India. Its extensive repository of photographic images has provided invaluable insights into solar phenomena such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections. The observatory’s unique location and state-of-the-art equipment have significantly contributed to our understanding of the Sun’s behavior and its impact on Earth.

Key Highlights from the Conference

Digitization of Historic Records: Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), highlighted initiatives like the digitization of KSO’s historic records. He also emphasized IIA’s significant contribution to the Aditya-L1 mission through the Visible Emission Line Coronagraph and discussed upcoming projects like the National Large Solar Telescope proposed in Ladakh.

ISRO’s Support for Solar Research: Former ISRO Chairman and current Chair of IIA’s Governing Council, A.S. Kiran Kumar, underscored ISRO’s capabilities in supporting space-based solar physics research. He encouraged the scientific community to propose new instruments for potential ISRO missions.

International Collaboration: The conference featured a diverse program of presentations, discussions, and poster sessions, fostering collaborations and strengthening international cooperation in solar physics research. Eminent solar astronomers, including Prof. John Leibacher from the National Solar Observatory, USA, highlighted KSO’s unique contributions to global solar research.

Legacy and Future of Solar Research in India

The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory has been a cornerstone of Indian astronomy for over a century. Its enduring legacy continues through ongoing projects like the Aditya-L1 mission and the proposed National Large Solar Telescope. These initiatives aim to open new frontiers of discovery in solar astrophysics, solidifying India’s position as a leader in the field.

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