The International Service Avenue of the Rotaract Club of Faculty of Science, University of Colombo (RACFOSUOC) began their 2024-2025 Rotaract year with Stellata 2.0, an engaging, three-phase initiative that takes space enthusiasts on an inspiring journey.
RACFOSUOC and the Students for the Exploration and Development of Space, University of Colombo (SEDSUOC), -supported by a network of international and local clubs including Rotaract Clubs of Durbarmarg (RID 3292), Hindustan University (RID 3233), Kantipur (RID 3292), M.O.P. Vaishnav College for Women (RID 3234), as well as the Interact Clubs of Royal Institute and S. Thomas’ Preparatory School captivated participants across the globe from insightful webinars to creative competitions and a breathtaking planetarium experience.
The journey began on the 21st of June this year, marking the international moon day, with an inspiring webinar titled Illuminating the Shadows under the first phase of Stellata 2.0. The panel discussion featured two expert panelists, Dr. Janaka Adassuriya and Er. Manu Aryal. Dr. Janaka Adassuriya is a physicist from the University of Colombo with a PhD in Astronomy and a strong academic background in Space and Atmospheric Science. Er. Manu Aryal is a Mechanical Engineer who has experience as a Propulsion Engineer and Systems Engineer in designing Two-Stage-to-Orbit hybrid rockets at Voyager Mayeen, Nepal. They discussed diverse topics including space missions, extra-terrestrial life forms, celestial phenomena, technological advancements and the future of space exploration.
Both speakers also shared their experiences in the field and shed light on various opportunities available for aspiring young scientists. The session was a remarkable success, drawing over 200 participants, an impressive turnout that highlighted its impact. With enthusiastic attendees from countries like Nepal and India, the event achieved a level of engagement beyond expectations.The webinar, with its powerful insights from Dr. Adassuriya and Er. Aryal left participants eager to dive into the world of space exploration and motivated to pursue careers in space sciences.
In the second phase, students from schools and universities had the chance to submit articles and e-posters in a competitive showcase of creativity and knowledge. Entrants wrote insightful articles on “The Solar System and Its Wonders” and submitted imaginative posters on the theme “Black Holes: Cosmic Monsters and Their Mysteries.”. The competition allowed students to channel that newfound curiosity into creative expression, submitting articles and e-posters that brought space exploration to life in their unique ways. The second phase of the project received an incredible number of responses, with entries from participants in Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka. By considering the submissions, 12 winners were selected with three winners chosen from each of the 4 categories by assessing the quality, creativity, and effectiveness of the content.
The project wrapped up with Visendus, a guided trip to the Planetarium on the 10th of August. Participants from schools and universities got the chance to experience an up-close view of the beauty and complexities of our Solar System, the Milky Way and other galaxies. The two foreign Rotaract clubs which included Rotaract Clubs of Hindustan University (RID 3233), and M.O.P. Vaishnav College for Women (RID 3234), also conducted their own planetarium visits creating a shared experience across borders.
From eye-opening discussions on space science and astronomy to the creativity of black holes and solar system-themed competitions, Stellata 2.0 left participants inspired by the wonders of space and eager to explore the universe further.
Written by: Rtr. Tharani Weeraman & Rtr. Adhila Nasir
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