National Space Day Celebration 2024
On India’s maiden National Space Day, NPSIC embarked on an extraordinary journey of space exploration, enriched by engaging demonstrations led by our senior students. The event was dedicated to celebrating the fundamental principles of space travel and rocket science through a series of exciting educational activities. The day commenced with students gathering in the auditorium to mark the anniversary of India’s landmark achievement on August 23, 2023, when the nation became the fourth country to successfully land a craft on the moon. The staff and students at NPSIC were thrilled to celebrate this day in the presence of Dr Bindu Hari, Vice Chairperson, NAFL, TISB and NPS group of schools and Ms Lalitha Das, Administrator, NPSIC.
The celebration began with a comprehensive presentation on the history of ISRO led by the Physics department. This segment traced the evolution of India's space programme from its humble beginnings to becoming a world-class space agency. The narrative honored the dedication and efforts of thousands of ISRO scientists and staff who have contributed to these remarkable achievements. The theme of the day, “Touching Lives While Touching the Moon,” was explored through a discussion of the significant impacts of ISRO’s research. This includes the development of advanced communication satellites, groundbreaking medical technologies, innovative materials with diverse applications, and vital disaster management and distress alert systems.
The educational journey continued with an interactive Q&A session where a range of questions from the students were addressed including reasons behind the selection of certain launch sites and the concept of “zero gravity” in space, which sparked lively responses from the students. Additionally, an overview of future ISRO projects such as Gaganyaan, NISAR, and Shukrayan, offering students insights into upcoming space missions were discussed. Opportunities for students to engage with space science through ISRO’s online Student Portal, the YUVIKA Young Scientist program, and various camps, workshops, and internships were shared along with highlights from the recent field trip of grades 11 and 12 to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, where students witnessed the launch of ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)-D3 and explored the center’s museum.
The celebration transitioned to the quadrangle, where students showcased their scientific skills through various rocket demonstrations. Grade 12 students presented two types of balloon rockets: the classic model, which demonstrated Newton’s third law of motion—action and reaction—by expelling air to create thrust, and an alternative design with a controlled air release mechanism. The event also featured an air-powered rocket demonstration, illustrating how compressed air can propel a rocket skyward and emphasizing the practical application of physics. Additionally, Grade 5 students participated in a parachute launch from the second floor, highlighting the principles of safe landings and adding an engaging aspect of physics to the festivities.
The demonstrations were met with heartfelt rounds of applause and cheers from the corridors of the school, creating an atmosphere of sheer joy, wonder and celebration. As we celebrated these achievements, we encouraged all participants to continue dreaming big and exploring the vast possibilities of space science.
