Distinguished Scientist
Space Science and Engineering Center
Sanjay Limaye is a Distinguished Scientist at the Space Science and Engineering Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison. Since obtaining his Ph.D. with Prof. Verner Suomi in 1977, he has conducted research on atmospheres of Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Titan and Neptune using data from Mariner 10, Pioneer Venus, Voyager, Venus Express and Akatsuki missions.
He spent two years in New York as National Research Council Resident Research Associate at the NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies during 1978-1980 with Dr. Jim Hansen who was transitioning from research on Venus to Earth climate. At the end of his fellowship, Prof. Suomi invited him to join Space Science and Engineering Center. During his tenure at SSEC, he has undertaken many innovative projects including public outreach and K-12 education.
His professional activities include hosting the 30th Annual Meeting of the Division for Planetary Sciences of the American Astronomical Society at the Monona Terrace Convention Center with an outstanding program for public engagement with lectures, presentations on the Solar System and the only space exploration exhibition held in Madison so far. He served as the Press Officer for the Division for Planetary Sciences. He has chaired the Venus Exploration Analysis Group chartered by NASA.
He has also been involved in international collaborations with Russia, ESA, Japan and India and has been involved with many proposals for follow on missions to Venus. His efforts led to the formation of a Joint Science Definition Team for Russia’s Venera-D and a Venus mission by the Indian Space Research Organisation.
His book, “Venus” with noted author William Sheehan was published recently by Reaktion Press.