To address the gap in the introduction of Space Science and Astronomy research to the school students who lack the basics tools and equipment that are instrumental in developing scientific temper among the youth.
Endorsement from Prof. VijayRaghavan (Principal Scientific Advisor Govt. of India) pointed out that this is an extraordinarily exciting phase that combines astronomy, observational astronomy across the spectrum, astrophysics, and big missions such as the laser interferometry gravitational Observatory (LIGO). Exciting discoveries are validating theories or testing their boundaries. One of the most exciting times for us as scientists, as citizens, all the changes which are happening combined with this is culminating in the collection of extraordinary volumes of data, their interpretation, and decision making. The accumulation and analysis of big data combined with the traditional excitement which astronomy provides are both now in theory, accessible to students across the world. Khagolshala is one venture which makes that access into reality and we all must congratulate everyone here at the space foundation and the Government of India for taking this forward.
As of today, Khagolshalas have contributed to the discovery of more than 7203 asteroids. The last one was HLV2514 by Vaidehi Vekariya and Radhika Lakhani from Surat. Khagolshala Asteroids Search Campaign (KASC) is the India chapter of an international student research program that has got students involved in the search for asteroids. High-quality astronomical data sets are distributed to students for analysis and identification of asteroids. Students analyze the data using software which then leads to potential discoveries. These observations feed into the Near Earth Object (NEO) data being compiled by NASA and the Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL).
We have adopted 20 Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya of Govt. of India and established Khagolshalas across India. It is open to the community for collaboration and contribution.
