Karazin University Inspires: Mykola Barabashov – Author and Editor of the First "Atlas of the Far Side of the Moon"

24 january 2025 year

Throughout the history of the university, Karazin scholars have been pioneers in many fields. They were looked up to, inspired others, and set an example, as their discoveries and scientific contributions have changed the world.

One of these outstanding individuals was the astronomer Mykola Barabashov, renowned not only in Ukraine but also far beyond its borders.

Mykola Pavlovych dedicated his life to studying celestial bodies of the Solar System. He was one of the founders of planetary science, a fundamentally new discipline, and conducted research on the Moon and planets during the dawn of humanity’s space era. The scientist foresaw that the Moon and planets would be the first celestial bodies humans would explore.

Using photometry, he made two significant discoveries about the Moon. His observations of the polar caps revealed that they are two-component structures— partly composed of water ice that remains constant and partly of frozen carbon dioxide, which evaporates during the summer season.

The astronomer also detected seasonal changes in the brightness of dark regions on Mars and hypothesized that this phenomenon could be caused by extremely powerful dust storms. Both of his assumptions were later confirmed. In recognition of his contributions, a minor planet, No. 2883, was named after him, and there is a Barabashov crater in the northern hemisphere of Mars.

In addition, in 1930, Mykola Barabashov was appointed director of the university’s Astronomical Observatory. From 1943 to 1945, he served as the rector of Kharkiv University.

Through his work, Barabashov significantly contributed to the understanding of celestial bodies, laying the foundation for future research. His scientific legacy stands as a testament to his passion for discovery and perseverance — qualities that have long defined Karazin University across generations.

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