Amaravati, Nov 28 (NationPress) The Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) is set to establish a cosmos planetarium that meets international standards in the capital of Andhra Pradesh, Amaravati.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Friday between the Andhra Pradesh Capital Regional Development Authority (APCRDA) and the IIA, with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu present at the event where the foundation stone for the regional headquarters of 15 public sector banks and insurance companies was also laid.

This cutting-edge facility aims to bring the marvels of space closer to students, providing an immersive experience that allows them to explore our universe, including its planets, stars, and far-off galaxies. Naidu mentioned on X, "The planetarium will stimulate scientific curiosity and inspire young minds to dream big and dive into the realms of astronomy."

Praising the state government's initiatives in establishing a quantum hub and advancing artificial intelligence, Finance Minister Sitharaman urged the Chief Minister to prioritize basic science subjects, highlighting Andhra Pradesh's reputation for producing top scholars in science.

She shared that multiple generations of her family have traveled to Varanasi for science education, noting the significant presence of students from Andhra Pradesh in science programs at Banaras University.

Sitharaman commended the Chief Minister for allocating land for the IIA to create a world-class planetarium in Amaravati, emphasizing its potential to enable young individuals to engage with astrophysics through real-time observations of planets.

She recognized the efforts of IIA Director Professor Annapurni Subramaniam, who successfully established an observatory at Hanle, Ladakh, despite the harsh conditions. The Union Minister reminisced about her visit to the observatory, describing the experience of observing stars and planets in real time as remarkable.

Additionally, the IIA is developing another planetarium in Mysuru, funded through her MPLAD initiative, with completion expected by January-February next year. She praised the IIA for sparking interest in astrophysics among school children and noted the institute's pioneering use of new technologies in the country.

While acknowledging the existence of numerous planetariums in India, Sitharaman pointed out that most only feature recorded star visuals. However, visitors to IIA observatories in Hanle and Kodaikanal can view stars and planets in real time. She encouraged the IIA to complete the Amaravati planetarium within a year and a half.