Sir Padampat Singhania Education Centre (SPSEC), Kanpur recently inaugurated its state-of-the-art Astronomy Laboratory, a pioneering initiative designed to deepen scientific curiosity and provide real-world exposure to space science and astrophysics. This landmark event reflects the institution’s unwavering commitment to equipping students with 21st-century skills through advanced, hands-on learning environments.
The inaugural ceremony was graced by Professor S. Somanath, former chairman, ISRO and advisor (Space), Government of Andhra Pradesh, as the chief guest and Professor Amitesh Omar, head of the Department of Space, Planetary & Astronomical Sciences & Engineering, IIT Kanpur, as the guest of honour.
The visit of Professor Somanath — a visionary who has led some of India’s most celebrated space missions — stands as a defining moment in SPSEC’s academic journey. His interaction with our students, parents, and educators brought unparalleled inspiration, bridging classroom learning with India’s cutting-edge advancements in space exploration.
The newly inaugurated Astronomy Laboratory is equipped with:
- Computerised and manual telescopes
- A celestial sphere
- Stellarium software
- GSAT-31 satellite model
- ISRO Wall Museum
- Interactive modules on India’s space missions
This facility marks a significant step toward embedding experiential, inquiry-driven, and interdisciplinary learning within the school curriculum, with direct outcomes including:
- Strengthened student interest in astronomy, astrophysics, and engineering
- Concept-based understanding of space, celestial motion, and satellite technology
- Enhanced teacher competence through exposure to real-world scientific frameworks
- Greater parent awareness of future-ready academic pathways
- Empowerment of students to pursue national and global STEM opportunities

A key highlight of the inaugural event was Professor Somanath’s open-house session with students and parents. His insights on Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1, rocket engineering, satellite missions, and India’s vision for human spaceflight helped demystify complex scientific ideas and brought India’s space ambitions alive for young learners.
His message — “The sky is not the limit, but only the beginning” —left an indelible impact on the entire SPSEC community.
Strengthening SPSEC’s Position as a Future-Ready Institution
The inauguration of the Astronomy Lab further enriches the diverse learning ecosystem already created under the institution’s Skill School, which includes:
- Robotics Lab- In collaboration with Science & Technology Council, Student’s Gymkhana, IIT Kanpur
- AR/VR Lab
- Additive Manufacturing & 3D Printing- In collaboration with J.K. Digital & Neumesh
- Vedic Mathematics Lab- In collaboration with Mathematics Department, CSJM University, Kanpur
- Psychology Lab- In collaboration with IIT Kanpur & Cute Brains Pvt. Ltd.
- Art, Sculpture & Music Studios
- Meditation Centre (Charkha Spinning Classes)
SPSEC is committed to pursue educational excellence that blends industry relevance, scientific inquiry, creativity, and values-driven learning.
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