First Indian Astronomy Communicators' Meeting Commences at IUCAA Pune
The inaugural Symposium for Communicating Astronomy in India (ASI-SCAI) has officially begun at the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) in Pune. This three-day national event, running from January 22 to 24, marks a significant milestone in India's scientific community by bringing together over 100 participants dedicated to astronomy outreach and public engagement.
A Tribute to Prof. Jayant V. Narlikar's Enduring Legacy
The symposium is dedicated to the memory of Prof. Jayant V. Narlikar, a pioneering figure in Indian astronomy and science communication. Prof. Narlikar's lifelong commitment to fostering scientific temper through books, lectures, television programmes, and institutional initiatives has inspired countless individuals to explore the universe with curiosity and confidence.
A special memorial session was held to honor his contributions, featuring prominent speakers such as Prof. Ajit Kembhavi (former Director of IUCAA), Prof. Ashish Mahabal (Caltech scientist and author), Arvind Paranjpye (Director of Nehru Planetarium, Mumbai), and Samir Dhurde (Public Outreach Officer at IUCAA). They discussed Prof. Narlikar's inspirational legacy in democratizing science and astronomy, while also exploring future directions for the community in the modern era.
Objectives and Impact of the Symposium
The primary aim of this groundbreaking symposium is to strengthen astronomy communication practices across India. Key objectives include:
- Fostering dialogue between researchers and communicators to bridge gaps in knowledge dissemination.
- Sharing best practices and innovative strategies for effective public engagement in astronomy.
- Building long-term networks to support collaborative efforts in science outreach.
- Recognizing outreach as an integral component of scientific work, rather than a peripheral activity.
By uniting diverse voices from across the nation, the symposium is poised to catalyze new collaborations, inspire innovative outreach initiatives, and contribute to a more inclusive and impactful culture of science communication—particularly in the fields of astronomy and space sciences.
Diverse Participation and Skill Sets
The event boasts a wide array of participants, reflecting the multifaceted nature of astronomy communication in India. Attendees include:
- Scientists and researchers from leading institutions.
- Educators and academic professionals.
- Science communicators and journalists.
- Planetarium professionals and amateur astronomers.
- Artists and students from various regions of India.
This diverse gathering underscores the symposium's commitment to creating a holistic and collaborative environment for advancing astronomy outreach in the country.
