Graduated from The Bronx High School of Science

Neil deGrasse Tyson graduated from The Bronx High School of Science in 1976, where he not only excelled academically but also demonstrated leadership as the captain of the wrestling team and served as the editor-in-chief of the Physical Science Journal. His passion for astronomy ignited at the young age of nine after a visit to the sky theater of the Hayden Planetarium. This early exposure to the wonders of the universe profoundly shaped his future. During his high school years, Tyson took advantage of astronomy courses offered by the Hayden Planetarium, which he later described as 'the most formative period' of his life. He attributes much of his inspiration to Mark Chartrand III, the director of the planetarium at the time, who became his 'first intellectual role model.' Chartrand's engaging teaching style, infused with humor, motivated Tyson to share the beauty and complexity of the universe with others, a mission he continues to this day. Tyson's journey from a curious young student to a leading astrophysicist exemplifies the impact of education and mentorship in shaping future leaders in science. #mooflife #mof #MomentOfLife #NeilDegrasseTyson #BronxHighSchoolOfScience #Astronomy #HaydenPlanetarium #Education