- By Sarju Saran Tiwari
- Mon, 11 Aug 2025 12:17 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
International Astronomy Olympiad: India has begun hosting the 18th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) in Mumbai from August 11 to 21, 2025. The prestigious event brings together over 300 high school students from 64 countries to compete in rigorous astronomy and astrophysics challenges.
Organized by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), a part of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, the Olympiad aims to foster global collaboration and excellence in space sciences among young minds.
Opening and Closing Ceremonies:
The opening ceremony will be held on August 12 at the Jio World Convention Centre, graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, principal scientific advisor Ajay Sood, and former International Astronomical Union vice president Ajit Kembhavi.
The closing ceremony on August 21 will take place at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, with ISRO chairman V Narayanan and renowned nuclear scientist Anil Kakodkar presiding over the proceedings.
History and Global Reach of IOAA:
Conceived in 2006 to address the growing interest in astronomy among school students, the first IOAA took place in 2007 in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Since then, it has been hosted in Brazil, China, Greece, Hungary, Iran, and other nations.
The Olympiad’s format tests students through theoretical exams, observational astronomy challenges, and data analysis tasks, encouraging analytical thinking and practical problem-solving in astronomy-related fields.
Academic and Accommodation Arrangements:
All main academic activities, including theory, data analysis, observational exams, and the innovative team competition, will be held at The Westin Powai Lake for participant convenience and safety during Mumbai’s monsoon season.
Leaders and academic mentors will stay at the St. Regis Hotel, Worli, where moderation sessions and jury meetings will be organized to maintain academic fairness and transparency.
An International Platform for Young Astronomers:
The IOAA offers a rare opportunity for students to interact with peers and experts from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. The platform has been instrumental in inspiring careers in astronomy, astrophysics, and related sciences.
By hosting the event, India reinforces its growing presence in global science education and its commitment to nurturing the next generation of space scientists.