Synopsis
The ongoing Global Solar Conference hosted by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics celebrates 125 years of solar physics research in India, featuring international experts discussing solar phenomena and future projects.Key Takeaways
- Celebration of 125 years of solar research
- Global participation of over 200 solar physicists
- Focus on solar magnetism and space weather
- Future initiatives like the National Large Solar Telescope
- Significant contributions to Aditya-L1 mission
New Delhi, Jan 24 (NationPress) The ongoing Global Solar Conference commemorates the inception and evolution of solar astronomy and physics in India, as stated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) on Friday.
The IIA organized the conference under the theme ‘Sun, Space Weather, and Solar-Stellar Connections’ to celebrate the 125th anniversary of its Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO). “This conference honors the origins and advancements of solar astronomy and solar physics in the nation.
With specialists from around the globe, it will delve into all facets of the Sun as well as space weather,” remarked Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of IIA, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
Over the past 125 years, the KSO has delivered invaluable insights into the Sun's behavior and its effects on Earth through its extensive collection of photographic records.
It has been pivotal in the establishment of solar astrophysics within the country. In a video address, DST Secretary, Prof. Abhay Karandikar, highlighted initiatives taken by the IIA, such as digitizing KSO’s historical records, along with the institute’s crucial role in the Aditya-L1 mission.
He also emphasized future projects like the proposed National Large Solar Telescope to be constructed at Merak, alongside Pangong Tso in Ladakh, adding that “these efforts are set to unveil new realms of discovery in solar astrophysics.”
“ISRO possesses all the capabilities to support solar physics research from space,” stated A.S. Kiran Kumar, former ISRO Chairman, and chair of the Governing Council of IIA. He also encouraged the community to propose ideas for new instruments that ISRO could launch.
Founded in 1899, the KSO is a foundational element of Indian astronomy and has consistently led solar research in the nation. The observatory's exceptional location, combined with its cutting-edge equipment, has allowed it to contribute significantly to our understanding of sunspots, solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and various solar phenomena.
The event, taking place in Bengaluru, Karnataka from January 20-25, has attracted over 200 solar physicists from India and abroad.
Participants are exploring research in areas such as solar magnetism, solar-stellar connections, and space weather.
The conference includes a rich program of presentations, discussions, and poster sessions, enabling attendees to share their latest discoveries, exchange ideas, cultivate collaborations, and enhance international cooperation.
