VSSC to drive Isro's young scientist plan

KOCHI: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) will be one of the four nodal centres for Indian Space Research Organisation’s ( Isro ) young scientist programme ‘Catch them young’.


Under the programme, three Class XI students from each state will be selected and trained in basic space science, space technology and space application.

The two-week long programme will be organized during summer holidays, from May 13 to May 25. It will include talks by eminent scientists, facility and lab visits, practical and feedback sessions.

In all, 108 students from across the country are expected to be trained as part of the programme from this year. It be held at four nodal centres: VSSC at Thiruvananthapuram, North East Space Applications Centre at Shillong, Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota and Space Applications Centre at Ahmedabad, said VSSC scientists.

The programme is aimed at arousing students’ interests in space science.

Isro officials said that they have informed chief secretaries of states and administrators of UT’s to arrange for selection of three students based on their academic performance and extracurricular activities.

Students from rural areas will be given special weightage in selection criteria. Isro officials also clarified that the programme will not come in the way of the model code of conduct for elections.

Directorate of public instructions (DPI) officials said director general of education will issue instructions to high schools for selection of students for the programme.

Selected students will be accommodated in Isro guest houses or hostels. Travel expenditure, course material and lodging will be provided by Isro.