The first of its kind Symposium for Astronomy Communication in India (ASI-SCAI) will be held from January 22 to 24 at the Inter University Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune.
The three-day national symposium began on Thursday and will bring together a wide range of stakeholders involved in astronomy outreach and public engagement across the country.
This symposium is dedicated to the memory of Prof. Jayant V. Narlikar, who was a pioneering advocate of astronomy and science communication, and of the scientific temper, in India.
Professor Narlikar’s lifelong commitment to engaging the public through books, lectures, television programs and institutional initiatives has inspired generations to look at the universe with curiosity and confidence.
A special session was held in his memory in which Prof. Ajit Kembhavi (former director IUCAA), Prof. Ashish Mahabal (Caltech scientist and author) participated. Arvind Paranjpye (Director, Nehru Planetarium, Bombay) and Samir Dhurde (Public Outreach Officer, IUCAA) discussed Prof. Narlikar’s highly inspiring legacy in bringing science and astronomy to the people. They also discussed ways forward for the community in the modern era.
This symposium is dedicated to the memory of Prof. Jayant V. Narlikar, who was a pioneering advocate of astronomy and science communication, and of the scientific temper, in India. (Express Photo)
The main objective of the symposium is to strengthen the practice of astronomical communication in India by encouraging dialogue between researchers and communicators, sharing best practices and building long-term networks. It also seeks to recognize dissemination as an integral part of scientific work and not as a peripheral activity.
By bringing together diverse voices from across the country, the symposium is expected to catalyze new collaborations, inspire innovative outreach efforts, and contribute to a more inclusive and impactful science communication culture in India, particularly in astronomy and space sciences.
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There are more than 100 in-person attendees. Skills represented include scientists, educators, science communicators, journalists, planetarium professionals, amateur astronomers, artists and students from across India.