Kodaikanal Solar Observatory celebrates 125 years of studying the Sun.
Celebrating 125 Years of Solar Discoveries: Kodaikanal Solar Observatory's Historic Milestone
The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO), a beacon of solar research under the aegis of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), marked a significant milestone on 1 April 2024, celebrating its 125th anniversary. Since its inception by the British in 1899, KSO has been pivotal in solar observation, holding one of the longest uninterrupted solar data records. This treasure trove of data, now digitized, serves as a global resource for astronomers.
The anniversary celebrations were highlighted by the unveiling of a special logo and a comprehensive booklet recounting KSO's rich history and scientific achievements. This ceremony was presided over by A.S. Kiran Kumar, the former Chairman of ISRO and Chairperson of IIA's Governing Council, alongside dignitaries like Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam, IIA's Director, and Prof. Siraj Hasan, a notable solar physicist and former IIA Director. Their discussions celebrated the observatory's legacy, including the groundbreaking discovery of the Evershed Effect.
From left - 1. Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam, 2. A.S. Kiran Kumar, 3. S. Seetha, 4. Prof. Siraj Hasan
S. Seetha, a former Director at ISRO, emphasized the importance of incorporating KSO's unique story into educational curricula to inspire the next generation. The event also coincided with IIA's Foundation Day, further enriching the observatory's storied tradition of astronomical exploration.
The Foundation Day Lecture, delivered by A.S. Kiran Kumar, traced the evolution of India's space program, highlighting its contributions to socio-economic development and recent achievements like the Chandrayaan 3 mission. Looking ahead, projects like the Gaganyaan mission promise to extend this legacy of innovation.
KSO's history, from its role in early eclipse expeditions and Helium's discovery to its contributions to understanding solar phenomena through projects like the Aditya-L1 mission and the upcoming National Large Solar Telescope in Ladakh, showcases its enduring impact on solar science. The 125th anniversary celebrates KSO's journey from its historical origins to its future in advancing our understanding of the Sun.