IUCAA Event: A bright star in BITSAA Pune cosmology

What an event! At IUCAA event, we had one of the largest turnout ever for a BITSAA Pune event. The event was kicked off by Prof Naresh Dadich by giving everyone a brief about IUCAA campus and the design fundas behind its exotic architecture. We then had a session from Arvind Gupta who took everyone for a ride into a fantastic world of scientific toys.

With his session, everyone got a very refreshing perspective and a clear message: It doesn’t require expensive toys, coaching or an Ivy League school for solid education of kids, however, it requires inculcation of a scientific approach and attitude into them. And how easily this can be done was demonstrated by Mr Arvind Gupta through wonderful gadgets made using household trash and employing scientific principles making the science learning fun and easy.

The Future of Astronomy by Mr Ramaprakash explained the basics of astronomy research, the mechanics behind telescopes and revealed details of an ambitious international project aiming to build a 300m telescope. This was followed by a talk by Mr Ajit who gave a history of astronomy, the kind of computing required for advanced research and the IUCAA plans to upgrade their infrastructure to be able to carry out the advanced research. He also invited BITSians to join IUCAA part time or full time for contributing to the project.

Bitsians were much wiser and well informed on top notch projects in astronomy by the time they started indulging in gastronomy. Delectable food in a beautiful open setting by the poolside and Bitsians ranging from 1954 batch to 2009 was perfect setting for BITSian nostalgia. Post lunch kids and parents alike had fun with kite flying though the wind became spoilsport by either not giving clue of the direction or playing truant. A 10-10 over game of cricket was exciting and brought back the memories of QT cricket in BITS. Shuvadeep’s team was favorite but was trounced by Anurag’s boys in a thrilling match with several twists. Scores: Anurag et al 75 runs in 10 overs. Shuvadeep et al 60 runs in 10 overs.

BITSAA Pune Managing Committee would like to thank Prof Naresh Dadich, Mr Arvind Gupta and IUCAA folks to provide facilities and an opportunity to alumni to know their work. We would also like to thank members who showed up in huge number to make event truly memorable and successful.