Speaker
Description
Progress in our understanding of astrophysical transients has followed a series of fits and spurts, often moving forward in a random walk manner, sometimes moving forward, sometimes backward. In large part, this arises from the bandwagon nature of science, where contrary views are often stifled. In an era where deviations from the standard picture become increasingly difficult, Remo Ruffini has exemplified the importance of scientists each striving to march at the beat of a different drum which, in turn, drives innovation and new ideas. I will show how, following his example, Remo Ruffini helped me develop my research direction in both supernovae and gamma-ray bursts. I will review some of the new discoveries in astrophysical transients brought by his approach.
