Pune’s IUCAA 2.0 to Feature Progressive Facilities for Astronomical Research
Pune, 22nd July 2024: Major advancements in astronomical research are underway globally, with significant projects such as space telescopes and the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) being developed. The Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA) is playing a crucial role in these initiatives through conceptualization, technical experimentation, and scientific research.
IUCAA, established in 1988 on the premises of Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU), is undergoing a major expansion with the construction of the ‘Academic and Research Building – IUCAA II.’ This new facility, expected to be completed by 2025 at an estimated cost of Rs 30 crore, will feature state-of-the-art amenities including dedicated spaces for the LIGO project, a laboratory for Astrosat research, classrooms for PhD students, visitor spaces, an auditorium, and conference rooms.
A specialized underground laboratory is being constructed for LIGO to minimize vibrations. This lab will house an optics lab, clean room, and radio physics lab, all vital for astronomical observations. IUCAA also receives data from the Astrosat satellite, and a modern lab with advanced facilities is being set up to analyze this data, as noted by Director Dr. Raghunathan Srianand.
The expansion has resulted in a nearly 40% increase in faculty and staff and a doubling of the student population. The new building will accommodate laboratories and classrooms for both professors and students. IUCAA 2.0 will ensure that essential research facilities are available for the next 25 to 30 years.
IUCAA will also focus on training skilled manpower and technicians needed for these large-scale projects. MSc students will have the chance to conduct experiments, and a one-year researcher training program will be introduced. In the third phase, additional training will be provided to researchers involved in actual experiments.
Features of IUCAA 2.0 include:
– Creation of laboratories for major projects
– Construction of a 200-seat auditorium
– Modernization of the science park
– Special arrangements for research visitors
