Antariksh Archives

Conceptus Celestia was a public ‘Star Party’ event organized by the Antariksh club of VI. Held on the 4th of April and extending into the morning of the 5th, the event took place at Chandavne nights camping, a secluded and dark location approximately 64 kilometers from Pune, ensuring minimal light pollution for optimal night sky observation. The event was a resounding success, enjoyed by 80 attendees who had the opportunity to observe constellations, deep sky objects, and participate in two insightful sessions led by Sir Jameer Manur and Pranav Pujari.

Precision measurement is crucial in scientific research for ensuring reliable data, which drives experimental accuracy and technological advancement. Historically, measurement methods have evolved significantly, from rudimentary ancient tools to modern standards like the metric system and the International System of Units (SI). Measurement types—such as length, time, and mass—each require specific techniques, ranging from rulers to atomic clocks, which aid in achieving accuracy. Standards like SI units ensure consistency and comparability across global laboratories. Measurement uncertainty, which quantifies the range within which the true value is expected to lie, is essential in precision. Uncertainty is typically measured through two methods: Type A (statistical analysis) and Type B (external sources). Combining these uncertainties offers a comprehensive uncertainty measurement, critical for data reliability. In the future, as technology and fields like quantum mechanics progress, demand for even greater measurement precision will increase, potentially leading to new methodologies. This understanding enables scientists to effectively interpret findings and enhances collaboration across disciplines.

Fundamentals of light have been the origin of many abstract and unique phenomena in our universe, like time dilation, length contraction and gravitational lensing, to name a few. Multiple experiments, along with deductions from astronomers and scientists like A. Einstein, P. Fermat and more, have been able to provide a cohesive understanding of these happenings. This paper thus goes to review and put together the correlation and logical overlap of such topics, from the bending of light (refraction) in contrast to the “bending” of light in space.

In this article we will explore the world of neutron stars, how massive dying stars undergo extreme transformation. From their first theoretical prediction to their effects on gravitational waves. We will further investigate the structure of the neutron star, from its thin atmosphere to its mysterious core. This article also examines their extreme physical features, including rotation, gravity, mass, and magnetic field. It also explores different types of neutron stars and their behavior in space. India’s contribution to this story is also discussed, focusing on institutes like TIFR and IUCAA, missions like ASTROSAT, and advanced observatories like GMRT.

The main objective of the event was to connect and interact with space enthusiasts  and spread awareness regarding the opportunities in this field for young minds.

Episode 7 of the Internal Talk Series featured Lavanya Saindane presenting on the International Liquid Mirror Telescope (ILMT). Located in Uttarakhand, ILMT is India's first and Asia’s largest operational liquid mirror telescope, built in collaboration with India, Belgium, and Canada. Lavanya explained liquid mirror technology’s advantages, like cost-effectiveness, self-healing properties, and easy maintenance. She discussed ILMT's construction, key components, and image mapping capabilities, illustrating its significant role in astronomical observations. The ILMT has captured remarkable images of asteroids, star clusters, and galaxies, advancing our understanding of celestial phenomena. The session concluded with a Q&A, inspiring curiosity about liquid mirror astronomy.