What New Opportunities Does the ISRO-Supported Space Lab in Arunachal Pradesh Offer?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- New space laboratory inaugurated in Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh.
- Collaborative initiative with ISRO to enhance students' skills.
- Focus on fostering curiosity and innovation in space science.
- Opportunity for students to visit ISRO headquarters in Bengaluru.
- Part of the NE-SPARKS programme aimed at raising awareness.
Itanagar, Aug 16 (NationPress) In partnership with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), a cutting-edge space laboratory has been established in the secluded Mechuka area of Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi-Yomi district to give students hands-on experience in space science and technology, officials reported on Saturday.
The facility was inaugurated by Arunachal Pradesh's Education, Tourism, and Libraries Minister, Pasang Dorjee Sona, on Friday afternoon, with the aim of enhancing students' curiosity and innovation while cultivating a scientific mindset among the youth.
In a series of posts on his X profile, Sona expressed: "Today marks a heartfelt and proud moment for me as I inaugurated the Pasang Wangchuk Sona ISRO Space Laboratory at Government Higher Secondary School, Mechukha - dedicated to my late father, Shri Pasang Wangchuk Sona."
He emphasized that this laboratory serves not only as an educational resource but also stands as a tribute to his steadfast belief in the importance of education and curiosity.
"I aspire for it to become a space where our children dream big, explore science without fear, and reach for the stars. May this space lab inspire generations of young minds in Shi-Yomi and beyond to innovate, explore, and lead our state towards a brighter future," the minister added.
Among those in attendance were Shi-Yomi Deputy Commissioner Liyi Bagra, Deputy Director of School Education Tade Dabi, Muskaan Chief Operating Officer Pranesh Debnath, along with students, educators, and community leaders.
In related news, an official in Manipur announced that around 100 science students from each of the eight Northeastern states will have the chance to visit ISRO in Bengaluru, aiming to spark curiosity and raise awareness about space science and technology.
Talented students will visit the ISRO headquarters in different groups as part of the North East Student Programme for Awareness, Reach and Knowledge on Space (NE-SPARKS).
This initiative is being carried out by the North East Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC) under the Ministry of the DoNER (Development of North Eastern Region).
The tour intends to ignite interest and enhance understanding of space science and technology, the official stated.
NE-SAC, based near Shillong, Meghalaya, is a collaborative effort between the Department of Science and the North Eastern Council (NEC) to offer developmental assistance to the northeastern region (NER) utilizing space science and technology.