Onlykashmir.in News Desk
The National Institute of Technology Srinagar inaugurated its Observatory for Astronomy and Astrophysics on campus, opening a dedicated facility for observational astronomy, astrophysics research, student training and public science outreach that institute officials say will strengthen the region’s engagement with frontier scientific disciplines. The observatory was formally inaugurated by NIT Srinagar Director Prof Anurag Misra alongside University of Kashmir Registrar Prof Nasir Iqbal, in the presence of Dean Research and Consultancy Prof Roohi Naaz, Head of Physics Prof GA Harmain, Prof Prince Ahmad Ganai and a large gathering of senior faculty, researchers and students.
At the heart of the new facility sits a 14-inch Celestron C14 EdgeHD aplanatic Schmidt-Cassegrain telescope mounted on a computerised equatorial system, paired with advanced astronomical imaging equipment including planetary and cooled deep-sky cameras, LRGB filters and a 2.5x Barlow lens. The setup is designed to capture flat-field, aberration-free imagery of the Moon, planets, nebulae, star clusters and distant galaxies, supporting both direct observation and serious astrophotography work by students and researchers alike.
Speaking at the inauguration, Prof Misra said the observatory creates a direct interface between classroom learning and scientific exploration, giving students the opportunity to observe, collect and analyse astronomical data first-hand while fostering research, innovation and curiosity. He added that the facility is expected to extend NIT Srinagar’s engagement with schools, colleges and scientific institutions across Jammu and Kashmir, positioning the institute as a regional hub for astronomy education. Prof Nasir Iqbal described the observatory as an important step towards strengthening scientific learning and cross-institutional collaboration, noting that modern infrastructure of this kind can draw young students into emerging areas spanning physics, engineering and computer science.
The observatory has been developed with scientific guidance from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru, with Dr Niruj Mohan Ramanujam of IIA serving as advisor and collaborator on astronomy education, science communication and outreach. Joining the inauguration virtually, Dr Ramanujam said an observatory becomes truly meaningful when used as a space for learning, exploration and community engagement, and expressed hope that the new facility would become a significant platform for astronomy outreach in the region.
The project also drew technical input from young entrepreneur Murtaza Khan during development. An Observatory Committee comprising Prof GA Harmain, Prof Shakeel Ahmad and Prof Fayaz Ahmad Sofi, alongside Dr Ramanujam, will oversee the facility going forward, with the initiative led on the ground by Prof Prince Ahmad Ganai, Head of the Department of Physics.
