Astrophysicist Umut Yıldız brings NASA experience to OMU in talk on the universe

A scientific bridge from NASA to METU, from METU to OMU

Astrophysicist Umut Yıldız, who worked for many years on deep space communication and big data analysis at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), met with students at a conference held at Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU). During the event titled “The Birth and Death of the Universe,” cosmic processes and the fundamental questions of modern science were discussed.

The event, organized in cooperation with the OMU Physics Society and OMU Observatory at the UZEM Conference Hall, was attended by Vice Rector Alper Kesten, Head of the Department of Physics at the Faculty of Science Ufuk Çoruh, Director of the Astronomy Education Application and Research Center Metin Yavuz, as well as many academics, high school students, and university students. At the conference, current scientific data covering a wide range from the beginning of the universe to its ultimate fate were shared.

“Science advances not through answers, but through questions”

Speaking at the opening of the conference, Head of the Department of Physics Prof. Dr. Ufuk Çoruh emphasized that science is not only a process of producing knowledge but also a systematic way of thinking. Stating that the scientific method is the most reliable guide for humanity, Çoruh said, “If the universe has a beginning, what existed before it? Science develops not through ready-made answers, but through the ability to ask the right questions. Perhaps this hall will witness the moment when ideas that will solve the mysteries of the universe first begin to emerge.”

Dr. Umut Yıldız explains the mysteries of the universe at OMU

After returning to Türkiye, Dr. Umut Yıldız, who has taken on senior scientific responsibilities in various technology companies to contribute to the space ecosystem, delivered his engaging presentation titled “The Birth and Death of the Universe” in his distinctive style. During the conference, current scientific data spanning from the origin of the universe to its ultimate fate were discussed.

Currently serving as Director of Science Communication and a faculty member at Middle East Technical University (METU), Yıldız shared information about his ongoing work and stated that he will continue his efforts to ensure that scientific knowledge reaches all segments of society.

The program, attended by Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Alper Kesten who also thanked those who contributed, concluded with a plaque ceremony. A plaque of appreciation was presented to Dr. Umut Yıldız by Prof. Dr. Ufuk Çoruh, while a plaque on behalf of Özön Group, supporters of the conference and alumni of the OMU Physics Department, was presented by Prof. Dr. Metin Yavuz, Director of the Astronomy Education Application and Research Center.

The event concluded with a commemorative group photo following a question-and-answer session.