Scientist Profile & Review: Neil deGrasse Tyson

Scientist Profile & Review: Neil deGrasse Tyson

Michael Weinhoffer, Staff Writer

Neil deGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysicist, author, and the ultimate reference for the answers to the deepest philosophical questions. He is currently the director of the Hayden Planetarium in the American Museum of Natural History, which is located in New York City. Tyson was named the “sexiest astrophysicist alive,” studied at Harvard University, University of Texas, and Columbia University, and has an asteroid (13123 Tyson) named in his honor.

Tyson earned his PhD in astrophysics from Columbia University, and he researches the formation and structures of stars and galaxies. He hosted the TV program, NOVA ScienceNow, and is currently hosting a radio and podcast program called StarTalk. Tyson has also earned numerous scientific awards and resides in New York City. Besides writing several books and dozens of research papers discussing astrophysics, he has also written publications regarding religion, which is usually an untouched subject by scientists. Tyson has also spoken dozens of times at museums and universities, and he continues to be one of the most sought out speakers in the nation.

What makes Tyson unique is his vivid personality and well-developed character. Full of energy, he is never afraid to tell a joke and lighten the mood of a serious science lecture. I believe that he is the “common man’s” scientist because although he performs legitimate and groundbreaking research, he communicates his ideas to the public in fascinating yet simple lectures that provoke critical thinking. In my opinion, he is a more legitimate science communicator than Bill Nye, and more lighthearted than Stephen Hawking. Neil deGrasse Tyson is the best science communicator in the world, in my opinion, and his deep philosophical perspectives are used to defend his astrophysical theories, which results in the perfect combination of the fantasies and realities of our universe.