Plurality of Worlds

Abstract

Human interest in the possibility of other worlds in the Universe has existed for over two millennia. In recent centuries, this question has been translated into the following terms: Are there planetary systems linked to stars other than the Sun? Developments in astronomical instrumentation have transformed this philosophical dream into a new, vibrant chapter in astronomy. This article describes my journey that started over 40 years ago with the exploration of the dynamics of our Galaxy, that brought astonishing scientific progress to which my collaborators and I have contributed, and eventually led to the amazing discovery of the plurality of worlds.