The pioneering Meteorologist Aswin Sekhar, a native of Ottapalam, Kerala, has earned a rare distinction by becoming the first Indian in his career to have a minor planet named after him; it is known as (33928) Aswinsekhar = 2000 LJ27.
His outstanding contribution to meteor science is highlighted by the international acknowledgment from the International Astronomical Union (IAU).
In June 2023, Sekhar, a French astronomer associated with the Paris Observatory, was presented with this prestigious award. He fervently hopes that this honour would inspire young Indians, especially those from rural backgrounds, to become more curious about science.
The breathtaking night skies over the Nila River during his upbringing inspired him to pursue meteor science, and he now hopes to inspire the next generation to do the same.
Sekhar’s research as a solar system dynamicist focuses on figuring out how asteroids, comets, and meteors orbit the sun. His work advances knowledge of the solar system’s history, origins, and evolution.
Additionally, his research is essential for determining the likelihood that alien object collisions will occur on Earth as well as for protecting satellites and other spacecraft from run-ins with meteor swarms.
Sekhar’s path from his hometown to global fame illustrates how closely he is connected to his roots. He continues to be committed to his native state by interacting with the tribal groups in Wayanad and Idukki despite his work studying meteors in Paris.
In order to encourage aspirant students to pursue scientific careers, he starts mentorship programs and outreach projects for science in remote schools.
Sekhar is a solar system dynamicist who studies the motion of meteors, comets, and asteroids around the sun. His research increases our understanding of the creation, development, and history of the solar system.
His work is also crucial for predicting the probability of foreign object collisions with Earth as well as for shielding satellites and other spacecraft from meteor swarms.
Despite his work studying meteors in Paris, he stays devoted to his home state through meeting with the indigenous communities in Wayanad and Idukki. He begins mentorship programmes and science outreach initiatives to entice aspiring youngsters to pursue scientific jobs.