Top 20 Facts about Neil deGrasse Tyson

Top 20 Facts about Neil deGrasse Tyson

*Originally published by Diane C in November 2022 , Updated by Vanessa R in November 2023, Updated by Diane C in January 2022

Neil deGrasse Tyson is an American astrophysicist, author, and science communicator. He was born the third child in to a family of three children. Tyson spent his childhood in Manhattan and was raised in the Castle Hill neighborhood of the Bronx.

Later on, the family moved to Riverdale. Tyson’s passion in astronomy, the sky and the stars began at an early age. He dedicated his time as a young man to studying astronomy at Hayden Planetarium. He was so good at it that he delivered  lectures on the subject at age 15!

1. Neil deGrasse once considered a career in dancing

Photo by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. Wikimedia Commons.

Tyson studied astronomy at the University of Texas at Austin in 1983. His extra curricular activities in school included wrestling and rowing. He was also active in the ballroom dance team. The dance team featured a variety of styles such as jazz, ballet and Afro-Caribbean.

Tyson’s interest lay in Latin ballroom dancing. He won a gold medal in 1985 when the University of Texas dance team took first place in a national Latin ballroom tournament. His colleague male dancers began showcasing their skills in clubs to get extra money. But he decided otherwise despite describing himself as “flexible from having danced”.

2. He is married to Alice Young

Tyson met his wife in a physics class at the University of Texas at Austin. The two tied a knot in holy matrimony in 1988. The couple named their first child Miranda, after the smallest of Uranus’ five major moons. Tyson lives in the Tribeca neighborhood of Lower Manhattan with his wife.

3. Tyson was voted the sexiest physicist alive

In 2000, Tyson was voted “Sexiest Astrophysicist Alive” by People magazine. And not only is he beautiful, he also has the brains! Tyson has written books like Death By Black Hole and Other Cosmic Quandaries, which was a New York Times bestseller, and The Pluto Files: The Rise and Fall of America’s Favorite Planet, chronicling his experience at the center of the controversy over Pluto’s planetary status.

4. He is a wine enthusiast

Photo by United States Department of Education. Wikimedia Commons.

Tyson is a wine enthusiast whose collection was featured in the May 2000 issue of the Wine Spectator and the Spring 2005 issue of The World of Fine Wine. He uses his knowledge in astronomy to finesse his wine knowledge.

He is knowledgeable about the history of wine production and the technology that will change wine in the future. Other topics include the physics of champagne bottles and glasses, the hazards of serving wine to astronauts, and biodynamic vineyards that look to the cosmos for help in growing the perfect grape.

5. Tyson has wrote widely on his spirituality

Tyson has written and broadcast extensively about his views of science, spirituality, and the spirituality of science. His essays include, “The Perimeter of Ignorance” and “Holy Wars”.

Tyson defines spirituality in a very classic manner. He says, “For me, when I say spiritual, I’m referring to a feeling you would have that connects you to the universe in a way that it may defy simple vocabulary. We think about the universe as an intellectual playground, which it surely is, but the moment you learn something that touches an emotion rather than just something intellectual, I would call that a spiritual encounter with the universe.”

6. He gained interest in astronomy at 9 years old

Photo by Thor Nielsen/Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Wikimedia Commons.

Tyson’s interest in astronomy was sparked after he visited the sky theater of the Hayden. At this point, he was nine years old. Tyson recalls that “so strong was that imprint [of the night sky] that I’m certain that I had no choice in the matter, that in fact, the universe called me”.

During high school, he attended astronomy courses offered by the Hayden Planetarium. This classes were very informative and completely changed the trajectory of his life.

7. He looked up to Mark Chartrand III

Tyson credits Mark Chartrand III, director of the planetarium, as his “first intellectual role model”. Mark’s enthusiastic style of teaching mixed with humor inspired Tyson to communicate the universe to others the way he did.

This happened after Tyson attended several astronomy courses offered by the Hayden Planetarium. Thirty years later, Neil went back to New York and was appointed the director of the Hayden Planetarium, the very place that ignited his passion.

8. He is the host of StarTalk

Photo by Dasaptaerwin. Wikimedia Commons.

StarTalk is a podcast network that talks about many things to do with science, pop culture and comedy. The show is beautifully done with a lot of clarity, humor and passion.

The podcast features captivating subjects such as space travel, extra-terrestrial life, the Big Bang, the role science plays in people’s lives, the future of our Earth and the environment, the science behind the most iconic sports plays in history, and breaking news from the universe. Tyson together with other show hosts are joined each week by comedian co-host, celebrity, and other special guests.

9. He has received many accolades as a scientist

Dr. Tyson has received nine honorary doctorates and the NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal. This is NASA’s highest civilian honor. The International Astronomical Union recognized him by naming an asteroid after him.

This is the “13123 Tyson”. He was also named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2007. In 2007, Dr. Tyson received the Klopsteg Memorial Award from the American Association of Physics Teachers.

10. Alice holds a PhD in Mathematical Physic

Photo b Mingle Media TV. Wikimedia Commons.

Alice Young earned her undergraduate degree in relativity physics from Rice University. She also got a PhD in mathematical physics from the University of Texas. She graduated from the University of Texas in 1985. After graduating, she joined Bloomberg LLC in New York where she worked as an Information Technologist manager.

11.He is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in the sciences

Neil deGrasse Tyson is a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in the sciences, fighting against racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. He serves as a role model for many young people, particularly those from underrepresented groups, and his work aims to make science more accessible to everyone.

In 2018, Tyson emphasized the need to make science cool for everyone, regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic background. He criticized discrimination in the sciences and urged for a more welcoming environment for scientists from all backgrounds. Tyson’s advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the sciences is making a significant impact on the lives of young people and the scientific community as a whole.

12. He has been on on magazines like Time and People

Photo by NMG Network on Unsplash

Neil deGrasse Tyson’s popularity and influence as a science communicator are evident in his appearances on magazines like Time and People. His 2007 Time cover story, “The New Cosmos,” emphasized Tyson’s vision for a future where science is accessible to everyone and inspired to learn about the universe.

In 2000, Tyson’s People cover story, “The Sexiest Astrophysicist Alive,” dispelled the stereotype of a nerdy scientist and made science more accessible. His appearances on Time and People cover stories demonstrate his success in making science more engaging for the general public and serve as a role model for scientists and enthusiasts of all ages.

13. Tyson has received numerous awards and honors for his work

Tyson has received numerous awards and honors for his work, including the NASA Distinguished Public Service Medal, the American Humanist Association’s Humanist of the Year award, and the Carnegie Medal for Excellence in Public Broadcasting. He has also been named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine.

Tyson’s awards and honors are a testament to his significant contributions to the public understanding of science and his commitment to science education and diversity in STEM fields.

14. Neil deGrasse Tyson is the Frederick P. Rose Director of the Hayden Planetarium

Photo by NASA on Unsplash

Neil deGrasse Tyson, the Director of the Hayden Planetarium, is a passionate advocate for making science accessible to everyone. He oversees the planetarium’s operations and programs, leading a team of scientists and educators dedicated to teaching astronomy and science.

Tyson’s passion for making science accessible is evident in the variety of programs and exhibits offered at the planetarium. He also hosts the popular podcast StarTalk, where he interviews scientists and experts on various scientific topics. Tyson’s role as Director of the Hayden Planetarium is crucial in promoting science education and public understanding, serving as a role model for scientists and enthusiasts worldwide.

15. Neil deGrasse Tyson is a strong supporter of space exploration

Neil deGrasse Tyson is a prominent advocate for space exploration, stating that it is crucial for humanity’s future. He believes that space exploration is the only way to understand our origins and destiny. Tyson supports NASA and other space agencies, emphasizing the need for funding and pushing human knowledge boundaries.

He also supports commercial spaceflight companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin, arguing that they make space exploration more accessible and affordable. Tyson believes that space exploration can help solve Earth’s problems and create a better future for humanity by learning more about the universe and our place in it.

16. He has a knack for explaining scientific materials

Photo by Billy Freeman on Unsplash

From best-selling books (“The Pluto Files”) to documentaries (“NOVA scienceNOW”) and countless public lectures, Tyson has made science a captivating narrative. He’s the bard of the cosmos, weaving tales of stars and galaxies that ignite imaginations and inspire millions. He doesn’t just explain scientific concepts; he brings them to life with vivid imagery, relatable anecdotes, and infectious enthusiasm. Tyson has a knack for making science accessible and engaging, breaking down complex theories into bite-sized pieces that anyone can understand.

17. Tyson refers to himself as a “Saganite”

Tyson openly calls himself a “Saganite,” acknowledging Carl Sagan’s profound influence. He carries on Sagan’s legacy of demystifying science and sparking public wonder about the universe. While Sagan used the power of television to ignite imaginations, Tyson utilizes the diverse landscape of modern media – podcasts, social media, documentaries – to keep the scientific flame burning brighter than ever. He echoes Sagan’s call for skepticism and critical thinking, urging us to question, explore, and never stop seeking answers to the universe’s grand mysteries.

18. He is a cosmic collector

Photo by malith d karunarathne on Unsplash

A true cosmic collector, Tyson owns a piece of the Moon and a Mars rock, tangible reminders of the vastness and wonder of the cosmos. He holds these celestial fragments close, not just as trophies, but as catalysts for conversation and inspiration. He uses them to spark curiosity in others, showing them that the universe is not just distant stars and galaxies, but something we can hold in our hands. These extraterrestrial treasures are not merely rocks; they are portals to understanding the origins of our solar system and the potential for life beyond Earth.

19. Tyson remains agnostic

While open to the possibilities of the universe, Tyson remains agnostic, challenging religious beliefs that contradict scientific evidence. He promotes a rational understanding of the cosmos, where wonder and skepticism coexist. He argues that science and religion can be complementary forces, with science providing a framework for understanding the physical world and religion offering meaning and purpose. His stance has sparked passionate debates, but it has also challenged many to re-examine their own beliefs and engage in meaningful conversations about the nature of reality.

20. He is a meme-master (ifykyk)

His viral “Death by Meteorite” video and his iconic Carl Sagan impression cemented Tyson’s status as an internet meme. He embraces the meme-ification, knowing that even a chuckle can spark a lifelong love for science. Whether he’s deadpanning about the dangers of space rocks or playfully mocking “badassery,” Tyson understands the power of humor to capture attention and make complex topics relatable. His memes transcend internet trends, becoming gateways to conversations.

He’s not just an astrophysicist; he’s a cosmic rockstar. He doesn’t just explain science; he makes it explode with humor and wonder. He’s Neil deGrasse Tyson, the Bronx-born bard of the universe, and his life is a constellation of fascinating facts waiting to be discovered.

From his stargazing childhood nights to his reign as the coolest science communicator on the planet, this journey through Tyson’s world is an explosion of curiosity. You’ll meet the wrestler-scholar who redefined “nerd,” the comedian who makes astrophysics laugh-out-loud funny, and the champion of diversity who is opening the doors of science to everyone.