Odisha Minister Inspires Future Astronomers with ISRO Tour for Students

In a bid to inspire young minds in the field of space science, Odisha's Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has launched an educational tour for 30 students to ISRO's Sriharikota space centre. Selected through Tata Steel's Young Astronomer Talent Search, these students will explore the realms of astronomy and astrophysics. The initiative, which celebrates the legacy of Odia astronomer Pathani Samanta, aims to ignite curiosity and scientific temperament among participants. This unique opportunity marks the first time YATS winners will visit ISRO's facility, promising to enhance their understanding of space exploration.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 26, 2026, 17:47 IST

Educational Journey to ISRO's Space Centre

Bhubaneswar: On Tuesday, Odisha's Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister, Krushna Chandra Patra, launched an educational tour for 30 students to the ISRO facility at Sriharikota, aimed at fostering their interest in space science, astronomy, and astrophysics, according to officials.

These students were chosen through Tata Steel's Young Astronomer Talent Search (YATS), a prominent program designed to inspire schoolchildren throughout the state to delve into space science and related fields.

The initiative, organized by Tata Steel in partnership with the Pathani Samanta Planetarium, provides students with a chance to explore the realms of astronomy and astrophysics while honoring the legacy of the renowned Odia astronomer, Pathani Samanta.

The educational visit to ISRO's Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Andhra Pradesh is set to conclude on May 29, as per the officials.

Minister Patra expressed optimism, stating, "This is the first time YATS winners will have the chance to visit ISRO's facility at Sriharikota. I believe this exposure will greatly enhance their understanding of space science and related subjects."

Chithra Arumugam, Additional Chief Secretary of the Science and Technology Department, encouraged the students, saying, "The space sector is brimming with opportunities, both in the private and government domains. I urge you to work diligently to become future space explorers. Witnessing telemetry and rocket launches will undoubtedly inspire you all."

The theme for the 2025-26 YATS edition, 'Stargazer Today, Gagannaut Tomorrow,' aims to spark imagination and cultivate a scientific mindset among students.

Since its launch in 2007, the YATS initiative has engaged over 540,000 students, with more than 260 winners visiting various ISRO facilities nationwide.