Khagol Bulletin # 135 (Jan 2025) - ENG

| 19 | KHAG L | No. 135 - JANUARY 2025 welcome address by Shailja Pant (Principal, DIBNS), setting an inspiring tone for the three-day journey of cosmic exploration. The inaugural session was graced by S.P.S. Rawat (Scientist G and Former ADG of ICFRE), who chaired the event, along with Anupam Bhardwaj (Coordinator, IUCAA) and Aasheesh, Coordinator (DIBNS). The opening talk by Anupam Bhardwaj on the Fundamentals of Astronomy set the stage for an immersive learning experience. The first day, based on the theme 'Unravelling the Mysteries of the Cosmos', introduced the participants to the f undamen t a l s o f as t r onomy and observational techniques. Anupam Bhardwaj provided insights into celestial structures, astronomical measurements, and the evolving universe. Bhuwan Joshi (Udaipur Solar Observatory) captivated the audience with his talk on solar physics, focusing on solar flares, sunspots, and the dynamic nature of the Sun. Kaushal Sha rma d i s cu s s ed a s t r onomi c a l techniques, including photometry and spectroscopy, which are crucial for studying stars, galaxies, and celestial bodies. The day concluded with an e n g a g i n g h a n d s - o n s e s s i o n i n obs e r v a t i ona l a s t r onomy , whe r e participants learned to operate telescopes and track celestial objects under the guidance of Kaushal Sharma, Nitesh Kumar, and Anupam Bhardwaj. The second day focused on the life cycle of stars and stellar explosions. Neelam Panwar (ARIES- Nainital) took the participants on 'A Stellar Journey: From Gas Clouds to Fiery Balls', explaining the birth, evolution, and eventual fate of stars. Brijesh Kumar (ARIES-Nainital) gave a compelling talk on supernovae explosions, emphasising their role in enriching the universe with heavy elements. Another highlight was the talk by Susmita Das (IUCAA), who discussed variable stars, demonstrating how their brightness variations help us understand stellar interiors and dynamics. A stellar modeling and data visualisation session led by Nitesh Kumar, Susmita Das, and R.K. Kundu equipped participants with skills to analyse astronomical data and interpret cosmic phenomena. The final day introduced the participants to cutting- edge topics in modern astrophysics, namely 'Black Holes, Globular Clusters and Data Analysis'. NeelamPanwar presented a session on multiwavelength astronomy, explaining the importance of observing celestial objects across radio, infrared, optical, and X-ray wavelengths to understand the universe comprehensively. Balendra Pratap Singh (UPES Dehradun) delved into the enigmatic world of black holes, unravelling their mysteries, properties, and role in astrophysical processes. Richa Kundu (Miranda House, University of Delhi) shared insights on the extra-tidal regions of globular clusters, and Nitesh Kumar led a hands-on session on astronomical data analysis, guiding the participants through advanced research techniques and data interpretation. The workshop concluded with an interactive feedback session, where participants shared their experiences and learnings. Certificates were awarded to all attendees, marking their successful comp l e t i on o f t h i s i n t e l l ec t ua l l y stimulating event. Experts and organisers reflected on the workshop's success in inspiring young minds and fostering a deeper interest in astronomical research. The workshop was coordinated by Aasheesh Raturi (DIBNS) and Anupam Bhardwaj (IUCAA).