The Manipal Centre for Natural Sciences (MCNS), a centre of excellence within the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), is dedicated to pursuing research in fundamental sciences. MCNS is one of MAHE's all-research centers, recognized for encouraging pioneering research in astrophysics, nuclear physics, theoretical physics, evolutionary biology, and computational chemistry. Besides research, MCNS actively promotes science outreach and education for students, lifelong learners, and science admirers by organizing various activities through Dr. TMA Pai Planetarium. MCNS is also a recognized IUCAA Centre for Astronomy Research and Development (ICARD) facility that actively promotes astronomical public outreach initiatives. The proposed three-day program, jointly organized by the MCNS and IUCAA, aims to foster scientific temper and curiosity in young children and encourage them to explore the intriguing field of astronomy.

Scope and objectives

This workshop aims to introduce young minds to basic astronomy concepts, help in an understanding of scales and our place in the universe, the fundamentals of telescopes, and provide hands-on training on fundamental experiments such as finding the diameter-distance ratio of the sun with a pin-hole image, making a sky angle measurer with a protractor, and a night sky watch session.

Target Audience

Highly motivated students of high schools (8th – 10th class) in Udupi and adjoining areas. The proposed session will accommodate up to 30 participants (3-4 students from interested schools)

Program Schedule

Date & Time: 16th – 18th April 2024, 9.30 AM- 4.30 PM.                     

Location: Foyer Area, Manipal Centre Natural Sciences, MAHE, Manipal.