Nodal Centre for ISRO-START Programme at AMU
Aligarh : The Interdisciplinary Department of Remote Sensing and GIS Applications, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has been designated as the nodal centre for the prestigious Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)-Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) programme. The inauguration of the ISRO-START Nodal Centre took place on 20 July 2023 on the premises of the Interdisciplinary Department of Remote Sensing and GIS Applications.
The START programme is an innovative online training initiative by ISRO, aimed at introducing undergraduate and postgraduate science and technology students to the fascinating world of space science and technology. The programme will be conducted by experienced ISRO scientists, offering in-depth knowledge across diverse space science domains, including astronomy, planetary sciences, heliophysics, atmospheric sciences, microgravity-related studies, and space technology.
Dr. Haris Hasan Khan, Chairman of the Department and coordinator of the ISRO-START nodal centre said that this collaboration promises to pave the way for a new generation of space enthusiasts and experts who will contribute significantly to India’s advancement in space science and technology.
The primary objective of the ISRO-START programme is to nurture and produce skilled human resources in the field of space science and technology and by broadening the user base of space exploration mission data, this initiative seeks to create a thriving ecosystem that encourages active student participation in space research, he added
Special guest on the occasion, Prof. Kr. Farahim Khan, Chairperson, Department of Geology, lauded the efforts of the Interdisciplinary Department for their coordination with ISRO, resulting in the establishment of the nodal centre. Prof. Syed Ahmad Ali, an expert in remote sensing applications in earth sciences, urged all the science and technology students at AMU to take full advantage of this opportunity and enrol themselves in the enlightening e-classes of ISRO-START programme to sharpen their space science skills and knowledge.
Dr. Haris Hasan Khan made a presentation highlighting the cutting-edge technologies in space sciences, covering topics such as space mining, space debris management, concepts of lunar and Martian bases, and underscoring the prospects of near-earth space colonization.
The inaugural programme was conducted by Dr. Tanzeel and Dr. Rizwan Ahmad extended a vote of thanks.