Bringing the Cosmos to Classrooms by Astronomy Outreach Prog: Year 2024 in Review
This year was truly inspiring as I embarked on a mission to ignite curiosity about the cosmos among young minds through Astronomy Awareness Programs in schools. Although my initial target was to visit 100 schools, unexpected challenges arose due to the government's decision to change the academic session. With schools prioritizing exams scheduled to begin on November 25 in the Kashmir Valley, my outreach efforts were limited. However, I promise to bring the message of stars and the universe to every school as the new academic session unfolds.
The journey so far has been nothing short of incredible. Hundreds of "WoW" sounds echoed in classrooms as students and teachers alike were captivated by the fascinating insights into the vastness of space. The Perseid meteor shower in August sparked vibrant discussions, but the arrival of Comet C/2023 Tsuchinshan stole the show. Students were spellbound, listening attentively as I shared details about this celestial visitor.
One of the highlights was my presentation on asteroids and asteroid search campaigns, a topic that seemed to open new avenues of wonder for many. I am deeply thankful to the schools that supported this initiative and welcomed me warmly.
Here’s a special mention of some of the schools that were instrumental in making this program a success:
- Noorani Public School, Charari Sharief
- SIM Nagam
- SIM Chadoora
- Apple Public School, Chadoora
- Alpine School, Beerwah
- Roots International School, Beerwah
- SAMIE, Beerwah
- Moonland School, Pakherpora
- New Spring Buds School, Budgam
- Imamiya Public School, Budgam
- Libra Edu Institute, Zoohama
- Central Valley School, Panzan
- Al Asma School, Budgam
- Al Habib Memorial School, Pulwama
- SIM, Panzan
- MMET, Pulwama
- Zikra Edu Institute, Pulwama
- Syed Al Basri School, Rajpora Pulwama
- Abu Hanifa Memorial School, Rajpora Pulwama
- Valley View Pub School, Sarie
- IEI,Chrawani Charari Sharief
- Hanfia Edu Institute, Kralpora
- Aglow Edu Institute, Chadoora
...and many more.
At Astronomy Outreach of Kashmir (AOK), our vision for 2024 is even more ambitious. We aim to spread the word of astronomy to over 100 schools, bringing the mysteries of the stars, galaxies, and comets closer to students' hearts and minds.
The journey has just begun, and I am filled with gratitude for the support and enthusiasm of the schools, teachers, and students who have been part of this mission. Together, we will continue to explore the wonders of the universe, one school at a time.
Stay tuned for more updates as we gear up for an exciting year ahead. Let’s keep looking up!