— Over 100 Indian schoolchildren and students gathered at the Nehru Planetarium in New Delhi to celebrate the 67th anniversary of the launch of the first artificial Earth satellite, Sputnik-1. The event, jointly organised by the Russian House in New Delhi, aimed to inspire the next generation of space enthusiasts while fostering a deeper understanding of Russian-Indian cooperation in space exploration.

The attendees were warmly welcomed by the Minister-Counselor of the Russian Embassy in India, Mr Roman Babushkin, and the Director of the Russian House, Dr Elena Remizova. Both dignitaries highlighted the enduring relationship between Russia and India in space science, emphasizing future collaboration in satellite technology and astronaut training. Mr Babushkin noted, “The partnership between Russia and India has always been forward-looking, and our shared passion for space is a vital element of this bond.”

As part of the event, Dr Prerna Chandra, a renowned researcher at the Nehru Planetarium, along with her colleagues, conducted an engaging historical quiz. The quiz tested the students’ knowledge on key milestones in Russian-Indian collaboration, such as advancements in engine building, satellite development, and astronaut training. The interactive format allowed students to delve into the rich history of space achievements, from the early days of Sputnik to India’s Mangalyaan mission.

A notable highlight of the day was an exhibition showcasing space technologies in everyday life, captivating both children and adults alike. Attendees also enjoyed a special screening of the film Space History of Russia, provided by the Association of Planetariums of Russia. The documentary offered a deep dive into Russia’s pivotal role in space exploration, leaving the audience with a renewed sense of wonder and curiosity about the universe.
At the close of the event, participants were awarded certificates and commemorative badges as a token of their participation and enthusiasm. The initiative aimed not only to educate young minds but also to inspire them to dream of future possibilities in space research and exploration.