The University of Mysore (UoM) and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) have taken a significant step towards transforming Mysuru into a major centre for astronomy education, research and public outreach by signing an amendment to their existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the COSMOS-Mysuru Centre.
The amended agreement was signed by Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of IIA, and M. K. Savitha, Registrar of UoM, on the university campus in the presence of senior officials, faculty members and representatives from both institutions. The revised MoU is expected to strengthen collaboration in science education, outreach programmes and joint scientific initiatives through the Cosmology Education and Research Training Centre (COSMOS-Mysuru).
Centre to Become Operational Soon
Officials said the centre is expected to become operational as a field station of the IIA soon, opening new avenues for research, academic engagement and public participation in astronomy and space sciences. The facility will serve as a hub for students, researchers and the general public to explore the cosmos.
State-of-the-Art Planetarium and Training Centre
COSMOS-Mysuru will feature a state-of-the-art planetarium alongside a data analysis training and resource centre for students and teachers. The facility will be among the world's first LED dome planetariums, equipped with an 8K-resolution tilted dome to offer an immersive experience and advanced data visualisation capabilities. According to Savitha, the facility will enable students and researchers to analyse data from Indian and international telescopes while developing skills in emerging scientific technologies.
The collaboration is expected to boost astronomy education in the region, providing hands-on training and exposure to cutting-edge research. The centre will also conduct public outreach programmes, including sky observation sessions, workshops and lectures, to popularise astronomy among the masses.
This initiative aligns with the broader goal of promoting scientific temper and space research in India, leveraging the expertise of IIA and the academic resources of UoM. The COSMOS-Mysuru Centre is poised to become a landmark facility for astronomy in southern India.
