Beyond science fiction: Prof. Jayant Murthy’s vision for space exploration

Science is fun. Science is rigorous. For Professor Jayant Murthy, science is about the process of solving a problem. A former Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Prof. Murthy is globally renowned for his work in ultraviolet background radiation who, among his many contributions, has had the rare honour of having an asteroid ‘215884 Jayantmurthy’ named after him for his invaluable contributions to the New Horizons mission. Furthermore, he is a part of one of the few groups that work on low-cost missions that are later applied on a larger scale. 

With exponential knowledge in astronomy since his early days, Professor Jayant Murthy discusses factors such as the advancements in exoplanet discovery. From the possibilities of having an ultraviolet telescope on the moon to the possibilities of outer space settlements in the near future, he talks about the influence of science fiction and the accessibilities of opportunities for such projects. Join us as Prof. Murthy shares his thoughts on possibilities of life on Mars while addressing public skepticism towards space exploration with conspiracies of the moon landing and advocating for scientific literacy.