Over 15,000 city students get a glimpse of astronomy – Times of India
TNN | Updated: Nov 18, 2019, 4:15 IST
Aurangabad: Over 15,000 students from different schools in the city are getting orientation for astronomy as part of international celebrations organised by city-based APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Astronomy and Research.
The initiative will conclude on November 27. Centre director Shriniwas Aundhkar said the International Astronomical Union (IAU) is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
“To commemorate this milestone, the IAU is organising an year-long celebration to increase awareness about astronomical discoveries as well as to support and improve the use of astronomy as a tool for education, development and diplomacy under the theme “Under One Sky”. The Astronomy Day in schools initiative is an IAU100 Global Project with the vision of mobilising the astronomical community to organise activities in schools,” he said.
He added that the ongoing drive was a special opportunity for students to directly interact and engage with astronomers and to learn about the important role of astronomy in lives.
Interaction with students, making them aware of the solar system and the university at large and exchange of astronomical knowledge through posters and charts are some of the key activities involved in the Astronomy Day in Schools programme.
“During school visits, students are offered an opportunity to gaze at the sun and other planets through high-power binoculars. Such demonstrations help in creating desired interest in the field of astronomy,” Aundhkar said.
The initiative is also spreading knowledge about the total solar eclipse which can be seen from India on December 26. “These celestial phenomena are apt examples to explain the mysterious world of astronomy. We are also spreading awareness about the safe viewing of the eclipse through safety goggles while interacting with students,” the organisers said.
“Different ICSE, CBSE and state board schools are being covered under the Astronomy Day in Schools programme, Aundhkar said,” adding that the total number of beneficiary students could be well over 15,000.
