Astronomy Club Activity “Night Sky Observation of Celestial Objects”

The Astronomy Club is associated with Department of Aerospace Engineering, MVJ College of Engineering organized a club activity “Night Sky Observation of Celestial Objects”, a sky gazing session related to astronomical conjunction event on 27^th February 2023 between 7.00PM and 10.00PM.

About the Event

The event started at 7.00PM at MVJCE Sports Ground. Around 140 student participants along with 7 faculty participants from various department actively participated in this activity to observe the physiography of celestial object. The objective of this activity is to enrich the knowledge about astronomical conjunction between the planets of Venus and Jupiter and observe the craters of the Moon which is natural satellite of Earth.

Astronomical Conjunction is an event, when a planet appears close to a moon or star or another planet. Conjunctions occur frequently in our solar system because “The planets orbit around the Sun in approximately the same plane – the ecliptic plane”. The Conjunction of Jupiter and Venus have been occurring throughout February, and even aligned with the moon.

The Jupiter (the largest planet) and Venus (the brightest planet) conjunction happened (those planets are seems to be very close each other, but in reality may the distance will be 400 million miles away) and it created a spectacular glow on 27.02.2023.

Based on the Astronomical Conjunction Event, Astronomy club of MVJCE has arranged two optical telescopes to observe the craters of the moon and spectacular astronomical conjunction between Venus and Jupiter with the help of Mr. Sajeesh Pilakat (External Member of MVJCE Astronomy Cub) and Mr. Biju, Independent Astronomer. The Students Were participated in this activity to observe the conjunction of Venus and Jupiter through the optical Telescope and to observe the craters of the moon. After watched the astronomical conjunction between Venus and Jupiter, The Telescope was repositioned to the Mars sight of view which is helped the students to observe the spectacular view of the Mars.

Followed by this activity, the discussion had held between the Students and Chief Guests. The Chief Guests were explained about difference between the day sky and night sky. They briefly explained about various Astronomical activity on night sky and star constellation (especially Orion constellation which also observed by the students through bare eyes). They also discussed with the students about optical Astronomy and light years (how long the celestial object in terms of the light travels in one year).

About the Guest

Mr. Sajeesh Pilakkat, Director-Principal Engineer at CapGemini Engineering in Bangalore. Sajeesh’s passion for astronomy dates to 1986 when he first laid eyes on Halley’s Comet. From then on, his interest in the field only grew, leading him to construct his own telescope and observe the wonders of the universe. As the great astronomer Carl Sagan once said, “We are made of star stuff.” Sajeesh’s journey in astronomy serves as a testament to the fact that we are all connected to the cosmos, and that the mysteries of the universe are just waiting to be discovered. Through his dedication and knowledge, Sajeesh has become an inspiration to many, including the students of our college who were fortunate enough to meet him during his visit last year. His passion for astronomy has left a lasting impact, inspiring many to join our astronomy club and continue to explore the beauty of the universe.

Mr Biju has done his MCA in KCT college, his hometown being Kerala. He is originally from the software background with the hobby of amateur radio that has got him to meet our guest sajeesh sir. Ham radio is a way of communicating worldwide for non-commercial purposes. He too pursues astronomy as a hobby and as said by him the sky has fascinated him since his childhood. His flair for pure sciences has rewarded him with certificates and recognition from various science clubs.

The session was concluded by 10.00PM with the vote of thanks by Dr. P. Arunagiri, HoD (i/c),Department of Aeronautical Engineering, to the Guest Speakers, Management, Principal, Vice principal, COE of MVJCE for giving this opportunity and also he specified special thanks to Club Co-ordinator, Faculty Members who are all supported to conduct the club activity ‘Night Sky observation on Celestial Objects’. A special mention to ITHELPDESK and the team for their technical support during the session.

Outcome of the Event

The students and the faculties could understand about Astronomical Conjunction and the importance of Night Sky Observation in astronomy. This will motivate the students to the professional way of approach to the subject. This session also encouraged the students to become a part of astronomical societies. Irrespective of the field an individual chooses, he/she can implement the study of astronomy by sky gazing or observing the sky, telescope-making and so on. This would in turn help them to explore astronomical studies. Happily, they have experienced and watched the craters of the moon also they took some pictures through the telescope by using mobile phones.