NEWS

• The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Karnataka, is set to launch teacher-training workshops under its flagship Provide Access to Telescopes (PAT) programme.
• Aim: To make astronomy more engaging by distributing telescopes to 833 residential government schools.

HIGHLIGHTS

Teacher Training Workshops

• To maximize telescope usage, DST will conduct structured workshops in partnership with the Karnataka Science and Technology Promotion Society (KSTePS) and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
• Duration: 20 hours per workshop, covering:
  • Basics of telescope use
  • Sky mapping techniques
  • Equipment safety & maintenance
  • Planning observation sessions
  • Formation of astronomy clubs in schools

Locations and Participation

• Workshops will be held in 12 cities, including Bengaluru, Mysuru, Belagavi, Kalaburagi, Dharwad, Bagalkot, Tumakuru, Karwar, Bidar, Raichur, Koppal and Hosapete.
• Each batch will train 60–70 teachers.

Practical Learning and Astronomy Calendar

• Teachers will receive a manual on reading the astronomical calendar, enabling them to schedule observation events.
• Live demonstrations: Teachers can show students planets, stars, the Moon, and other celestial objects.
• Sessions may be conducted during class or after school, encouraging students to align, focus and interpret telescope views.