Events for National Space Day are mandated by UGC for institutions to host

In order to commemorate the first National Space Day on August 23, 2024, universities and other higher education institutions (HEIs) are being asked by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to plan a variety of events. Prime Minister Narendra Modi formally announced this date to mark the triumphant launch of Chandrayaan-3.

The celebrations are meant to get young people interested in and excited about space technology and its uses. The subject for this year is 'Touching Lives while Touching the Moon: India's Space Saga,' which emphasises the way India's space missions have had a transforming effect.

Ideathon and hackathon in space

The official announcement from the UGC states that "the celebrations will initially begin with a one-day conference/workshop/exhibition, known as the Space Ideathon in universities/colleges to foster innovative ideas."

Furthermore, the Department of Space is planning a number of well-known events, including:

Antriksh Bhartiya Hackathon:

Students will work on ISRO-announced issue statements at this national hackathon, which will promote creative solutions. Teams that have been shortlisted will compete in a final at particular locations, and the best teams will be awarded internships at ISRO Centers. At the National Space Day ceremony, the top three winners will showcase their applications.

ISRO Robotics Competition:

In order to address real-life space robotics difficulties, institutional teams will create robots to compete in an arena inspired by extraterrestrial life. On National Space Day, the top three winners will present their concepts.

Functions and Participation of the Pre-Event

Pre-event events are scheduled on August 22 and 23 in New Delhi's Bharat Mandapam. The ISRO Robotics Challenge, the Bhartiya Antriksh Hackathon, and zonal-level displays of Chandrayaan-3's accomplishments are some of the upcoming events.

The UGC has asked HEIs to actively plan conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and the Space Ideathon in order to boost student involvement in ISRO Robotics Challenge and Bhartiya Antriksh Hackathon.

Additionally, through a Google form on the UGC website, institutions are requested to share their actions on the University Activity Monitoring Portal (UAMP).