Bhubaneswar: Odisha Science and Technology Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Tuesday flagged off an educational exposure tour of 30 students to the Indian Space Research Organisation’s Satish Dhawan Space Centre to encourage young minds to pursue space science, astronomy and astrophysics.
The students were selected through Tata Steel’s Young Astronomer Talent Search (YATS), a flagship initiative designed to nurture interest and aptitude in astronomy, astrophysics and space science among school students across Odisha.
Organised by Tata Steel in collaboration with the Pathani Samanta Planetarium, the programme also seeks to honour the legacy of legendary Odia astronomer Pathani Samanta.
Officials said the exposure visit to ISRO’s Sriharikota Range (SHAR) in Andhra Pradesh will continue till May 29.
Speaking on the occasion, Patra said the visit would provide students with first-hand exposure to India’s space research ecosystem.
“For the first time, YATS winners are getting an opportunity to visit ISRO’s facility at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh. I am sure the exposure visit will enlighten the YATS winners on space science, astronomy and astrophysics,” the minister said.
Additional Chief Secretary of the Science and Technology Department Chithra Arumugam said the rapidly expanding space sector offered immense opportunities for students.
“There is a huge opportunity in the space sector today, be it private or government. So, I urge you all to work hard and smart to be among the space explorers. I am happy that all of you will get the opportunity to witness the telemetry and see how the rockets are launched. It will surely inspire you all,” she said.
The 2025-26 edition of YATS is being organised under the theme “Stargazer Today, Gagannaut Tomorrow” with the objective of fostering scientific temperament and inspiring students towards careers in space research and exploration.
Since its inception in 2007, the initiative has engaged more than 5.4 lakh students across Odisha, while over 260 winners have visited various ISRO facilities in different parts of the country, officials added.