ISRO Space Exhibition at RTU Draws Record 3,200 Student Turnout
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Three‑Day ISRO Space Exhibition at Rajasthan Technical University Draws Record Student Turnout
Rajasthan Technical University (RTU), Jaipur – A three‑day exhibition organized by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on the campus of Rajasthan Technical University (RTU) turned out to be one of the most attended academic events of the year. The exhibition, which ran from 7 to 9 June 2024, showcased the latest developments in space technology, attracted more than 3,000 students and faculty, and reinforced RTU’s reputation as a hub for science and engineering education.
What the Exhibition Offered
The ISRO‑RTU partnership created a multi‑layered exhibition featuring:
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Satellite Models | Scale models and interactive 3‑D visualisations of satellites in the Indian Satellite Programme (ISSP), including the recent launch of the GSAT‑19 and the GSLV‑Mk‑III missions. |
| Rocket Technology | A detailed layout of the PSLV, GSLV, and the new SLS‑K launch vehicle design. Live‑streamed animations showed how rockets lift off and stage‑separate. |
| Human‑Spaceflight | A replica of the Shukla‑Space‑Missions Habitat module, explaining life‑support systems and mission planning. |
| Space‑Science Labs | Mini‑workshops where students could run basic experiments on micro‑gravity, radiation, and solar panel efficiency using portable devices. |
| Interactive Touch‑Screens | Stations that let visitors explore the Indian Space Research Organisation’s database of satellite data, launch schedules, and orbital mechanics. |
| Student Projects Showcase | Projects developed by RTU students under ISRO guidance, ranging from drone‑based remote sensing to small‑satellite design concepts. |
The exhibition was designed to be hands‑on, with real hardware, simulators, and augmented‑reality overlays that made the complex science approachable to a broad audience.
Key Speakers and Sessions
A range of experts delivered talks and panel discussions throughout the event:
- Dr. N. P. Khanna, ISRO Deputy Director (Propulsion) – Discussed the latest improvements in solid‑fuel boosters and the role of propulsion in future deep‑space missions.
- Prof. R. A. Kumar, RTU Dean of Engineering – Emphasised the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between space science and conventional engineering.
- Dr. S. Patel, ISRO Mission Planner – Presented a case study on the launch of GSAT‑23, illustrating the mission planning process from design to in‑orbit operations.
- Student Panel – “Space is for All” – A moderated discussion with graduating RTU engineers who had participated in ISRO internships, addressing career pathways in the space sector.
The talks were streamed live on RTU’s learning management system and recorded for students who could not attend in person.
Student Participation and Feedback
Over 3,200 students from RTU’s departments of Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Science attended the exhibition. More than 70% of participants reported that the event had sparked or intensified their interest in pursuing careers in space technology.
“Seeing the actual rocket modules up close was exhilarating,” said Priya Sharma, a senior in Aerospace Engineering. “I never realized how much engineering goes into a single launch. I’m now definitely applying for ISRO’s upcoming internships.”
Students also took part in a competitive quiz titled “Space Challenge 2024”, which tested their knowledge on Indian space achievements, satellite technologies, and orbital mechanics. The quiz attracted 1,100 participants and was judged by ISRO senior scientists.
Collaboration and Funding
The exhibition was a joint effort between ISRO’s Office of Public Engagement and RTU’s Office of Research and Development. According to a press release from RTU (link: https://www.rtu.ac.in/press/ISRO-exhibition), the event was funded by ISRO’s Public Relations Department with additional support from RTU’s Technology Development Fund.
Dr. P. K. Agarwal, RTU’s Vice‑Chancellor, noted that “the partnership with ISRO not only brings world‑class space technology to our campus but also provides students with an invaluable exposure that aligns perfectly with our curriculum objectives.”
Broader Impact and Future Plans
The success of the exhibition has prompted both institutions to plan a regular series of Space Days. ISRO’s Office of Public Engagement is looking into setting up a permanent satellite data lab at RTU, where students can work with real satellite imagery and telemetry.
In a related article, ISRO’s website announced a new “Student‑Space‑Ambassador Programme” (link: https://www.isro.gov.in/ambassador) that will allow selected RTU students to act as liaisons between the university and ISRO, facilitating research projects and field visits.
The exhibition also had a socio‑educational dimension. RTU’s Outreach Program arranged a “Space‑Awareness Camp” for students from nearby rural schools, thereby widening access to space education beyond the university.
Conclusion
The three‑day ISRO space exhibition at Rajasthan Technical University not only showcased India’s space prowess but also served as a catalyst for inspiring the next generation of engineers and scientists. With record student turnout, interactive exhibits, and expert lectures, the event demonstrated how collaborative ventures between government research agencies and academic institutions can elevate science education to new heights. As ISRO and RTU chart their future plans together, the exhibition marks a pivotal step toward making space an integral part of India’s educational landscape.
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