International Astronomical Union names asteroid after Indian professor in recognition of his contribution to astronomy

The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has named an asteroid after renowned Indian astrophysicist Professor Jayant Murthy, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru announced on Friday. Recognize his contribution. The asteroid, previously designated “2005 EX296,” has now been officially named “(215884) Jayantmurthy” by the International Astronomical Union’s Small Object Nomenclature Working Group. This asteroid is located between Mars and Jupiter and orbits the sun every 3.3 years.

Professor Murthy’s contributions to the New Horizons mission

Professor Murthy, who retired from IIA in 2021 but continues to serve as Professor Emeritus, expressed happiness at this rare recognition. He attributes the honor to his work with NASA’s New Horizons science team, specifically focused on observing ultraviolet background radiation in the universe. The New Horizons mission, known for its detailed study of Pluto during its 2015 flyby and subsequent exploration of the Kuiper Belt, benefited from Professor Murthy’s contributions.

Previous IIA directors and asteroids named after them

His research centers on measuring the cosmic ultraviolet background, which is critical to understanding celestial phenomena. IIA Director Professor Annapurni Subramaniam described the naming of the asteroid as a “very rare honour”. Prof. Murthy now joins the esteemed company of former IIA Directors Prof. MK Vainu Bappu and Prof. JC Bhattacharyya, who also have asteroids named after them.

Professor Muti’s former student Joice Mathew, who currently works at Australia’s Mount Stromlo Observatory, hailed the recognition as well-deserved. He highlighted the excitement among those familiar with Professor Murthy’s work, noting that naming an asteroid after him was an incredible tribute to his contribution to the field of astrophysics.

The naming of “(215884) Jayantmurthy” proves Professor Murthy’s significant impact on ultraviolet astronomy and space mission research, and highlights India’s strength in the field of astrophysics on the international stage.