Blogs

Sakwala’25 - The Theoretical and Practical Astronomy Workshop and the Course

General structure and prospectus for the “Sakwala” Theoretical and Practical Astronomy Workshop and the Course

§  Published by

Old Anandian Astronomical Association

§  Full Title

-          Sakwala’25, The Theoretical and Practical Astronomy Workshop and the Course

§  Introduction

-         Sakwala'25 is an intra-school Theoretical and Practical Astronomy Workshop and the Course organized by the Anandian Astronomical Association and conducted by Old Anandian Astronomical Association exclusively for the students of Ananda College. As a key event under the Astro Ananda Astronomy Month, Sakwala'25 provides a unique platform for young Anandians to explore the wonders of the night sky and deepen their passion for astronomy. Through carefully designed observation sessions, workshops, and interactive activities, participants gain valuable hands-on experience in practical astronomy, expanding both their knowledge and enthusiasm in the field. The importance of Sakwala'25 lies not only in fostering astronomical skills but also in nurturing critical thinking, curiosity, and a spirit of scientific inquiry among students. By engaging directly with celestial observations and discussions, participants develop a deeper appreciation for the universe and the role of science in understanding it. Furthermore, the camp strengthens camaraderie among like-minded peers, encourages teamwork, and inspires the next generation of astronomers and scientists at Ananda College.

-          

Course Structure and The Syllabus

Ø  Duration of the course - twelve 12 days (Total 30 hours) Astronomy course

(1)   Online 18 hours (10 days) Theoretical Astronomy program

(2)   Physical 12-hour (Overnight) practical Astronomy program

Structure and Content of the Online Theoretical Astronomy Program

Physical 12-hour practical Astronomy Program

This program will be conducted at the final day of Sakwala program at the premises of Ananda College, Colombo, Sri Lanka

The main objective of this practical Astronomy workshop is to give practical exposure of observation astronomy, hands-on skills of using telescopes and give an exposure to Practical Astronomical Assessments.

Special Sun Observation program with Sakwala25’

 “The Unseen Sun”

§  Scheduled on – 7^th, 8^th, 9^th, 11^th July 2025 from 14.00h to 16.00 h at the premises of Ananda College, Colombo 10, Sri Lanka.

§  Activities Planned to be done at “Unseen sun” event

-          Observation of the Sun, Solar flares through H-Alpha range light (By H-Alpha telescope)

-          Observation of sun through white light, observation of Sunspots

-          Explanation of formation of Sun, atmosphere of the sun, energy generation process of sun, Solar activity and Sunspots.

Assignments of the workshop and final gradings

Ø  Online four (8) Continuous Assessments (CAT) during the period of online theoretical program

§  Each CAT consists with 10-20 MCQs (see notes above for details)

§  Allocate 30% marks from Final mark of the course

Ø  End Course Assignment- at the day of Star Party

§  Allocate 70% marks from Final mark of the course

Ø  Pass mark of the course -Forty (40) or above from total mark (8 CAT exams + End

      Course Assessment)

Important

Ø  Questions of Continuous Assignments

§  Made by the lecturers who has done the relevant Lecture or session

Ø  End Course Assignment

§  Made by the Sakwala Academic Committee

Achievements, Awards and Certificates

(1) Grading of the course (Sakwala’25 Theoretical and Practical Astronomy Course)

according to final marks

§  Less than 40- Participated

§  40 - 49- Successfully completed

§  50 - 59- Successfully completed with Credit

§  60 - 69- Successfully completed with Merit

§  70 or above - Successfully completed with Distinction

Ø  Grading of the student should be mention in their certificate

(4) Certificates

§  should give to everyone who participated for the workshop by mentioning their grading of the course

Academic Staff

§  All the Academic Staff members of the Sakwala’25 astronomical workshop and the course should have good knowledge and experience in teaching Astronomy

§  Members of the Senior Academic staff should have a Bachelor’s Degree (or qualified as an undergraduate) as the minimum qualification to be a Senior Academic Staff member. All the other junior academic members should work under supervision of senior Academic Staff

§  In charge/ Head of the workshop (Course Director) should have bachelor’s degree (in science related stream) and experience of teaching Astronomy more than five (5) years as the minimum qualification. The person who is appointed as the head of the workshop and course, should have to take all the academic responsibilities of the workshop and should take responsibility to make the signature in the workshop certificate.

Prepared by,

Sakwala’25 Academic Committee