An acclaimed astrophysicist, he is known for making science accessible to the public. He earned a BA in Physics from Harvard and a PhD in Astrophysics from Columbia. As the director of the Hayden Planetarium, he revitalized public interest in space. Although not primarily known as a film actor, he has appeared in documentaries and TV shows, often playing himself. His engaging communication style has made him a popular figure in media, blending science with entertainment.