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Astronomy for All |
In the context of IYA 2009, IIA has adopted the motto "Astronomy for all" and decided to promote astronomy through easy-to-use astronomy tools designed by scientists and engineers in the institute.
» Galileoscope
Keeping in  mind our expertise in optical astronomy and our mandate of disseminating the knowledge and practice of astrophysics as widely as possible, we have designed a sturdy, affordable and easy-to-handle Newtonian telescope (shown in right) of about 4-inch aperture. A large number of such low cost telescopes will be distributed to different schools, colleges and academic institutions to enthuse interest in astronomy among people. The first consignment of the telescopes that have already being arrived in IIA will be open for purchase soon.
Click here to see the telescope manual.
» Radio Interferometer
As a part of the International Heliophysical Year (IHY), IIA had designed and constructed a radio interferometer for solar studies. The first recipient has been the Mohan Lal Sukhadia University, Udaipur. More such kits will be provided to the Indian Universities as a part of IYA 2009. » Solar Spectroscope
IIA has designed and produced a Pocket Solar Spectroscope, costing Rs. 50/-. Several pieces of these spectroscopes have been donated to schools.
» Educational & Outreach Programs
IIA has initiated an educational extension programme, with the government high school, Madivala, Bangalore. Scientists and PhD students from the institute visit the school regularly to help students grasp scientific ideas through models and demonstrations. |
A detailed report of the IIA's work on the IYA 2009 presented at the meeting at the IUCAA on the 3rd October, 2008 by Dr S Chaterjee can be found here.
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