Space Experiential Learning Centre - Iusstf
In line with IUSSTF's mission to promote collaboration in science and technology between India and the United States, the program aims to foster the competencies of young space enthusiasts and encourage them to pursue higher education and careers in space science, a key focus area for Indo-U.S. cooperation under the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET).
Activities under the initiative include:
- Space Experiential Learning Centre: The center will feature educational resources and exhibits to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Highlights include telescopes, interactive displays, and virtual reality simulators.
- The Astronomy and Space Club: Located at the American Center in New Delhi, the Club – will be open to 60 high school students (from classes 8th to 11th) from the Delhi NCR region, offering a unique blend of hands-on learning, skill development workshops, sky observation sessions, and much more, all centred around space exploration for a duration of one year.
- Space workshops and skill training programs: One-day workshops will be conducted at U.S. Consulate regions in India, engaging local high school and college space enthusiasts in various topics, including building and launching model rockets and telescope observation sessions.
This program aims to balance in-person and online learning by accommodating school schedules and providing a variety of engaging experiences for participants.
The Astronomy and Space Club offers a unique, year-long immersive program for 60 exceptional high school students selected from across the Delhi NCR region. The SELC Centre at the American Centre in New Delhi will feature interactive exhibits designed to engage club members during offline sessions. These exhibits include telescopes, spacecraft models, virtual reality simulators, and a mini-photo museum showcasing Indo-US collaborations in space.
What the Club Offers:
- Year-Round Learning: Participants will engage in bi-monthly weekend sessions, ensuring continuous exploration of space science concepts and hands-on learning experiences.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program provides a deep understanding of space science, covering fundamental principles alongside practical applications such as satellite technology and astronomical observations.
- Hands-On Activities: Members will participate in exciting sky observation camps, model rocket building, and other engaging activities that make space exploration tangible and inspiring.
- Skill Development: The club focuses on developing essential skills for careers in the space industry, including problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking.
- Expert Mentorship: Students will receive invaluable guidance and inspiration from leading space scientists and experts in the field.
Program Activities
The Astronomy and Space Club provides a diverse range of activities designed to cater to different learning styles and interests:
- Offline Sessions and Outdoor Activities: Interactive sessions will be held at the American Center, New Delhi (ACND)
- Online/Virtual Learning: The program incorporates online sessions and virtual expert talks, expanding access to knowledge and diverse perspectives.
- Skill Development Workshops & Overnight Sky Gazing Sessions (Activities within Delhi): Four specialized workshops will be offered throughout the year, with each accommodating a batch of 15 students. Each club member will have the opportunity to participate in one of the following workshop based on their interests.
- Satellite Development: Explore the principles and processes involved in designing and building satellites.
- Telescope Building & Astrophotography: Learn the art of constructing telescopes and capturing stunning images of the cosmos.
- Space Mission Design: Delve into the complexities of planning and executing successful space missions.
- Space Robotics: Discover the fascinating world of robotics in space exploration and its crucial applications.
The Astronomy and Space Club offers an unparalleled opportunity for selected students to delve into the wonders of the universe, develop crucial skills, and connect with leading experts in the field.
Indo-U.S. Human Space Exploration Workshop
Overview:
This impactful one-day workshop, a Space Experiential Learning Center (SELC) initiative, held on 4th March 2025 at Raman Research Institute Bengaluru, offered Bengaluru-based high school students (grades 8-12) a unique exploration of human space exploration, focusing on the Indo-U.S. collaboration exemplified by NASA's Artemis and ISRO's Gaganyaan missions.
Objectives:
- To explore the goals and technologies behind current human spaceflight programs.
- To engage students through interactive, hands-on activities related to space concepts.
- To provide direct insights from leading experts in the field.
- To foster networking among space enthusiasts and industry professionals.
Key speakers included:
Dr. Nisha Mendiratta, Executive Director, IUSSTF
Prof. Tarun Souradeep, Director, Raman Research Institute (RRI),
Dr. Umamaheshwaran R Former Director of the Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC) at ISRO, India
Mr. William G. Cammet Space, Science & Technology Officer, U.S. Embassy New Delhi
Participants:
The workshop was designed for and attended by enthusiastic high school students in grades 8-12 residing in Bengaluru, all sharing a keen interest in the future of space exploration.
Workshop Picture Gallery- Link
While this workshop has concluded, please visit our website for information on future SELC initiatives and opportunities.
