a day ago
Orientation-cum-selection camp for int'l astronomy Olympiad draws to close at IISER Mohali
Chandigarh: The orientation-cum-selection camp (OCSC) for the international astronomy Olympiad is drawing to a close at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali.
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Designed to hone the skills of India's brightest young minds in astronomy and astrophysics, this intensive camp is set to culminate with the selection of five students who will represent the nation at the International Olympiad for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) 2025, scheduled to be held in August in Mumbai.
A rigorous selection process began with a national-level test, the Indian National Astronomy Olympiad, which saw close to 500 participants.
From this pool, 54 students were initially chosen across two groups: Group A (Class 12) and Group B (Class 10 or 11). Of these, 37 students from various parts of India ultimately qualified and are currently participating in the OCSC at IISER Mohali.
The OCSC programme is a comprehensive training ground, featuring a blend of theoretical and practical sessions. Students have engaged in lectures, tutorials, hands-on telescope setup and handling sessions, and crucial sky observation sessions, all aimed at deepening their understanding of astronomical concepts and techniques.
While the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE-TIFR Mumbai) typically organises the Astronomy OCSC, this year's responsibility was entrusted to IISER Mohali. The camp will conclude with a valedictory function on June 11.
