Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Neil deGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysicist, author, and science communicator known for his work in popularizing astronomy and science. He has directed the Hayden Planetarium and hosted educational TV shows like "Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey."
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Neil deGrasse Tyson is the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History.
He hosted the TV series 'Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey,' a follow-up to Carl Sagan's original series.
Tyson is known for his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts to the general public.
He has written several best-selling books on astrophysics and space exploration.
Tyson played a significant role in the debate over Pluto's classification as a dwarf planet.
Review Questions
Related terms
Hayden Planetarium: A planetarium located at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, where Neil deGrasse Tyson serves as director.
Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey: An educational television series hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson that explores various aspects of space and time.
Pluto Dwarf Planet Debate: The astronomical debate regarding whether Pluto should be classified as a planet or a dwarf planet, influenced significantly by opinions from scientists like Neil deGrasse Tyson.