132nd Anniversary of the Birth of Mykola Barabashov — Outstanding Astronomer and Rector of Karazin University

On March 30, the Karazin University community honors the memory of an outstanding Ukrainian astronomer, academician, educator, and rector of our university — Mykola Pavlovych Barabashov.

The scientist’s name is inseparably linked with the development of astronomical science in Ukraine and the establishment of Kharkiv University as a major research center. At a time when the world was only dreaming of distant planets, Mykola Barabashov was laying the foundation for their study here in Kharkiv — researching the physics of Mars and the Moon, planetary atmospheres, and the phenomena of light scattering. His work brought international recognition and made the university one of the leading centers for planetary research.

Barabashov also played a crucial role in the university’s life during challenging times. As rector in 1943–1945, he contributed to the restoration of the university after wartime destruction, the organization of the educational process, the revival of scientific activity, and the support of the academic community. Thanks to his efforts, key university structures were preserved and rebuilt.

Mykola Barabashov was also the founder of the Kharkiv school of planetary science and an инициator of astronomy popularization, particularly through the establishment of the Kharkiv Planetarium. Owing to his work, astronomy became more accessible to a wider audience and helped inspire young people’s interest in science.

Today, Barabashov’s name is borne by a street and a metro station in Kharkiv, a crater on Mars, minor planet No. 2883, and the Research Institute of Astronomy at Karazin University. His scientific legacy continues to inspire new generations of researchers, and his life remains a model of dedication to science and the university.

Commemorating Mykola Barabashov reminds us of the importance of scientific heritage, which is built over years of dedicated work and continues to live on through research, traditions, and new discoveries within the academic community.