Remembering Jayant Narlikar: The Astrophysicist Who Challenged The Big Bang Theory
India has lost a towering figure in astrophysics. Jayant Narlikar, the celebrated scientist who dared to challenge the prevailing Big Bang theory, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 86. His work, his dedication to science education, and his unwavering commitment to rationalism have left an indelible mark on the scientific landscape, inspiring generations of researchers and science enthusiasts.
Narlikar's legacy extends beyond his groundbreaking research. He was a prolific science communicator, an institution builder, and a fierce advocate for critical thinking. His contributions have not only advanced our understanding of the universe but have also fostered a scientific temper in India.
Challenging the Big Bang: Narlikar is perhaps best known for his work with physicist Sir Fred Hoyle in developing an alternative to the Big Bang theory. The Hoyle-Narlikar theory posited a continuously expanding universe with the constant creation of new matter. While the Big Bang model has gained wider acceptance, Narlikar's work provided valuable tools and perspectives that continue to be relevant in cosmological research.
"He advanced mechanisms by which matter could be continually created and destroyed in an infinite universe," said astronomer Somak Raychaudhury. "While the Big Bang model gained broader acceptance, many tools developed for the steady-state model remain useful today."
A sign outside his office boldly proclaimed: "The Big Bang is an exploding myth."
A Legacy of Scientific Inquiry: Narlikar's commitment to scientific inquiry extended to exploring unconventional ideas. He spearheaded balloon experiments to investigate the possibility of panspermia, the theory that life originated elsewhere in the universe and was spread to Earth. These experiments led to the discovery of new species of upper atmospheric microbes, some of which exhibited remarkable resistance to ultraviolet radiation.
These findings, though initially met with skepticism, have significantly contributed to the fields of microbiology, astrobiology, and environmental science. The discovery of three new UV tolerant species, was not merely an indirect nod to panspermia's potential, it was also a profound contribution that enriches the fields of microbiology, astrobiology, and environmental science.
Narlikar coordinated ISRO and CCMB and this led to the discovery of new species of upper atmospheric microbes.
Building Institutions and Inspiring Minds: Recognizing the importance of fostering scientific talent in India, Narlikar founded the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune. IUCAA has become a world-renowned institution for astronomy and astrophysics research, attracting scholars and students from around the globe.
Furthermore, Narlikar was a passionate science communicator, authoring numerous science fiction books and articles aimed at making science accessible to the general public. His stories often tackled complex scientific concepts in an engaging and thought-provoking manner. His first sci-fi short story, 'Krishna Bibar' (Black hole) was in Marathi and written in 1974.
A Champion of Rationalism: Narlikar was also a vocal critic of pseudoscience, challenging astrology and other unscientific beliefs. He believed in questioning everything that lacked a scientific basis, advocating for a rational and evidence-based approach to understanding the world. Narlikar, much like Carl Sagan, bequeathed to us a powerful ‘baloney detection kit.' His enduring dictum can be summarised as, ‘test all claims, mainstream or fringe, with scientific rigour and society will stand to benefit.
Jayant Narlikar's passing is a significant loss for the scientific community and for India as a whole. However, his legacy of scientific inquiry, institution building, and rationalism will continue to inspire generations to come. What are your thoughts on Narlikar's contributions to science and society? Share your comments below.
