Guv House Embarks on Space Odyssey With Its Science Lab
In a forward-looking push to transform science education for young students, Uttar Pradesh’s Governor’s House (Jan Bhawan) in Lucknow has inaugurated a unique Village Scientific Space Lab on its premises, marking a major effort to bridge classroom theory with hands-on scientific exploration. Named after astronaut Sunita Williams, the facility was formally opened by Governor Anandiben Patel in the presence of the Director of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Space Applications Centre, Nilesh M Desai, underlining the collaborative spirit between education, governance, and national space institutions.
This innovative initiative, developed in partnership with the Vyomika Foundation, is specifically aimed at students of Classes VI to VIII, offering them a rare opportunity to learn and engage with science beyond textbooks. The space lab’s curriculum focuses on modern and future-oriented subjects such as space science, robotics, drone technology, artificial intelligence (AI), astronomy, and satellite applications fields that are increasingly relevant in India’s dynamic technological landscape.
A highlight of the launch was the unveiling of the ‘Space on Wheels’ van at Adarsh Secondary School, located within the Jan Bhawan campus. This mobile science exhibit serves as a roving extension of the space lab, hosting working scale models and educational displays of India’s major space missions. Among these were models of the Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV), Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), and iconic missions such as Chandrayaan-1, Chandrayaan-2, and Mangalyaan. The van is designed to give students an immersive visual and interactive understanding of the country’s space achievements.
During her engagement with the students, Governor Patel emphasised not only the importance of scientific curiosity but also everyday habits that support learning, such as regular school attendance, maintenance of cleanliness in school premises, and positivity in daily life. She encouraged teachers to initiate regular cleanliness drives with students and advised young learners to always wear a smile when coming to and leaving school.
Officials involved with the project have highlighted that the space lab will play a critical role in sparking scientific curiosity, fostering innovation, and nurturing critical thinking skills among students. By blending practical activities with concepts aligned to ISRO’s outreach guidelines, the lab is positioned to help learners explore higher education pathways and future careers in space science, engineering, and related technologies. Additional plans include periodic science exhibitions, competitions, workshops, and science fairs that will deepen student engagement and offer hands-on experience. There are also provisions to support qualified students with visits to ISRO centres and opportunities to participate in national-level competitions, enriching their educational journey.
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