The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has initiated the 44th Annual Meeting of the Astronomical Society of India (ASI), with the formal inauguration taking place on May 16. This five-day conference has garnered participation from over six hundred astronomers, researchers, students, and science communicators globally. This gathering is particularly noteworthy as it signifies the return of the ASI Annual Meeting to the Northeast region after three decades, with the last event held in 1996 at Gauhati University.

During the inaugural ceremony, distinguished figures were in attendance, including Prof Devendra Ojha, President of the Astronomical Society of India, and Prof Devendra Jalihal, Director of IIT Guwahati. Other notable attendees included Prof Sukumar Nandi, Dean of Administration; Prof Santabrata Das, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee; and several prominent academics from various institutes throughout India.

Prof Devendra Jalihal welcomed all participants, expressing enthusiasm about hosting the conference. He emphasised the significance of such events for inspiring the younger generation, particularly in the Northeast, by connecting them with advances in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). He expressed hope that this meeting would lead to new ideas and collaborations among students and researchers.

Focus on Scientific Exchange and Engagement

The Astronomical Society of India, established in 1972, serves as an essential professional body for astronomers in India. With a membership exceeding one thousand, it focuses on fostering advancements in astronomy and related sciences. The annual meeting is considered the primary platform for scientific dialogue, collaboration, and outreach within the community.

In his presidential address, Prof Devendra Ojha highlighted the legacy of the ASI, mentioning its growth into a vibrant scientific community over more than five decades. He expressed excitement about the conference’s return to the Northeast, while noting the impending infrastructure advancements that could enhance observational capabilities in India. This event aims to create opportunities for young researchers to engage in meaningful scientific inquiry.

The conference is set to feature over one hundred and forty scientific presentations and three hundred and fifty-five poster discussions covering various themes, including exoplanets, stars, galaxies, and cosmology. These sessions seek to inspire attendees and encourage dialogue on pertinent topics in contemporary astronomy.

Outreach Initiatives and Awards Presented

A highlight of the conference’s pre-event activities included a public lecture titled “A Decade of AstroSat – India’s First Space Observatory,” delivered by Prof Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Additionally, hands-on workshops are taking place to cover diverse thematic areas in astronomy, expanding access to practical knowledge in the field.

The inaugural event also featured the presentation of awards recognising excellence in the field of astronomy and astrophysics. The ASI Zubin Kembhavi Award was conferred upon the team responsible for the GROWTH-India Telescope in Hanle, Ladakh. Other accolades included the Laxminarayana and Nagalaxmi Modali Award and the Justice Oak Award for Outstanding Thesis, highlighting significant contributions to the discipline.

As part of the outreach efforts, the Public Outreach and Education Committee of ASI is facilitating engagement activities in and around Guwahati. Astronomers visiting the city are reaching out to students in nearly twenty schools and colleges, aiming to inspire the next generation of researchers. Furthermore, exhibitions showcasing astrophotography are being held at both the Guwahati Planetarium and Guwahati Science City, enhancing public interaction with astronomy.

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