Csterc

🔭 The Telescope Construction Workshop at Terapanth Jain Vidyalaya Matriculation Higher Secondary School, Chennai kicked off on 19.11.2025 with a vibrant inauguration, followed by an engaging introduction to Space Science that ignited curiosity among young learners.

Students enthusiastically took part in the hands-on telescope assembly training, exploring the science and precision behind building their own instruments. The day concluded with captivating celestial observation and telescope handling sessions, giving participants a chance to witness the wonders of the night sky up close.

With 300+ students attending the inaugural event and 80 students actively participating in the assembly workshop, Day 1 marked an inspiring beginning to this exciting learning journey. 🚀✨

Astro Guide Training Programme 2025 – Andaman & Nicobar Islands

What an incredible journey this has been!

Over the past week, we had the privilege to lead the Astro Guide Training Programme 2025, an initiative by the Department of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, in collaboration with Open Space Foundation, C-STERC, and Whistling Woods Andaman.

From learning the fundamentals of astronomy, dark-sky preservation, and telescope handling, to exploring AI tools for itinerary design, branding, and storytelling, participants from across the islands immersed themselves in every aspect of Astro Tourism.

The islands one of India’s best access to pristine night skies. The community’s enthusiasm was inspiring, 88 participants came together to co-create ideas for sustainable, dark-sky-friendly tourism, blending science, culture, and livelihood.

Facilitated by Anupama Pradeepan and Bharat Kumar Velusamy, and supported by Uday Bhaskar, the programme marks a meaningful step toward empowering local communities and establishing the Andamans as a model for community-led Astro Tourism in India.

This is not just about stargazing - it’s about connecting people, nature, and possibilities under one shared sky!

On the occasion of UN World Science Day for Peace and Development 2025, C-STERC had the honour of being represented by Anupama, who shared our journey and insights at the International Astronomical Union – Office of Astronomy for Development (IAU-OAD) global panel titled “Science in Action: Grassroots Pathways to Development.”

Speaking alongside inspiring changemakers from St. Lucia and South Africa, Anupama presented the story of the C-STERC Women AstroPreneurs Collective (CWAPC) - a pioneering initiative that empowers women through science-based entrepreneurship in astronomy.

The session highlighted how astronomy can become a bridge between education, livelihood, and sustainability, by enabling women to build telescopes, lead astro-tourism experiences, and participate in local science-driven economies.

The discussion reaffirmed C-STERC’s belief that science for development must be inclusive, participatory, and locally rooted; creating pathways for peace, equity, and innovation.

We extend our sincere thanks to the IAU-OAD team, moderator Joyful and Ram, and fellow speakers Cheyenne Polius (LUNAA Journeys, St. Lucia) and Wilma de Souza (USIKO, South Africa) for an inspiring exchange of ideas.

Together, we continue to work towards building a global ecosystem where science belongs to everyone - nurturing curiosity, community, and creativity-

undation

On Nov 10, World Science Day for Peace and Development, we will explore the role and meaning of science in different contexts and what science needs to do better to truly serve society.

Three trail-blazing grassroots, science-driven development initiatives, from India, St. Lucia, and South Africa, will join us for an online panel discussion. Through examples ranging from science tourism to gender equity to skills development, they will share insights and motivations, and reflect on barriers to science in their communities.

Panelists:
Wilma de Souza, Usiko Stellenbosch
Anupama Pradeepan, Csterc
Cheyenne Polius, LUNAA Journeys

What does science for development mean to you? Post your comments and questions below.

Monday, 10 November 2025, 11:00 UTC
Register at: https://astro4dev.org/science-in-action-grassroots-development-with-astronomy/

The International Astronomical Union Department of Science,Technology and Innovation SA National Research Foundation Department of Science and Technology, Government of India International Science Council
[development, World Science Day, science, astronomy, tourism, India, South Africa, St.Lucia, women, employment, youth, education, skills]