Imagine gazing at the craters of the moon, the rings of Saturn, and the distant galaxies, all from your college campus! That's now a reality for students at SCS Autonomous College in Puri, who are celebrating the legacy of a remarkable astronomer and the arrival of a cutting-edge telescope.
Honoring a pioneer:
The college recently marked the 189th birth anniversary of Samanta Chandrasekhar, a legendary figure in Odia astronomy. Born in 1835, Chandrasekhar made significant contributions to our understanding of the cosmos, despite limited resources and formal training. He was a self-taught astronomer who calculated the timings of solar and lunar eclipses with remarkable accuracy.
A celebration of science:
The celebration wasn't just about remembering the past; it was also about looking towards the future. The highlight of the event was the inauguration of a 16-inch Dobsonian telescope, a powerful instrument that will allow students to explore the wonders of the universe firsthand.
Dr. Subhendu Pattnaik, former Deputy Director of the Pathani Samanta Planetarium, was the chief guest at the event. He spoke passionately about Chandrasekhar's contributions, urging students to emulate his dedication, analytical thinking, and innovative spirit.
The new telescope is the largest and most advanced optical telescope in Odisha. It will enable students to observe celestial objects in stunning detail, from the craters on the moon to the distant nebulae and galaxies. This hands-on experience will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of astronomers and scientists. The principal of SCS Autonomous College emphasized the relevance of Chandrasekhar's work in modern times. His dedication to scientific inquiry and his ability to make groundbreaking discoveries with limited resources serve as an inspiration for students today.
The inauguration of this powerful telescope at SCS Autonomous College is a significant step in promoting scientific education and research in Odisha. It provides students with an invaluable opportunity to explore the universe and contribute to our understanding of the cosmos.
By honoring the legacy of Samanta Chandrasekhar and providing students with the tools to continue his work, SCS Autonomous College is fostering a spirit of scientific inquiry and inspiring the next generation of astronomers. This initiative will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the scientific community in Odisha and beyond, ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge continues to shine brightly.
