Delhi government sets up model astronomy laboratory for disadvantaged girls in Badarpur school

NEW DELHI: Giving a push to science education among girls from disadvantaged groups, Delhi government set up a model astronomy laboratory at one of its schools in southeast Delhi’s Badarpur.A senior Delhi government official said the lab aims to help students grasp complex concepts of astronomy and space science through interactive and visual tools, including detailed models of the solar system, celestial bodies, rockets and satellites, as well as visual representations of galaxies, stars and other cosmic phenomena.“Efforts are being made to improve facilities in state-run schools and bring them on a par with private educational institutions,” the official said.Established by Aahwahan Foundation, a non-government organisation working with economically disadvantaged communities, with support from tech major Nokia, the lab was designed as an immersive, hands-on learning space to encourage observation, inquiry and critical thinking, while fostering scientific temperament and conceptual clarity.Braja Kishore Pradhan, chief executive officer and founder of Aahwahan Foundation, claimed the school earlier lacked a properly equipped astronomy lab, making it difficult for girls to understand concepts through practical learning. “With the introduction of this lab, these girls will now be able to learn science practically, just like students in large private schools,” Pradhan said.