P.E.S Modern High School English Medium is known for its well planned activities to achieve the overall development of the students along with academics. One such unique programme conducted was the “Sally Ride EarthKAM misson- 63”. Our school is proud and active participant of all the activities conducted by IUCAA. IUCAA attracts students with vibrant opportunities for space study. Out of 6 schools in Pune our school was selected to be a part of this wonderful and prestigious mission, Sally Ride EarthKAM Mission-63.

One of the unique programme in the year 2018 was Sci-Fi “SALLYRIDE EARTHKAM MISSION 63” event in association with Inter University of Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics, exclusively for the school students to get networked with Satellite imaging from ISS(NASA).

A written exam based on general knowledge of Physics and Geography was conducted for the students of standard 8th, 9thand 10th. Out of it 30 students were selected for this programme. The session aimed at teaching students how to send a request to ISS (International Space Station) for getting image of the specific place on earth from the satellite.

The training programme started on 26th September 2018. Dr. Samir Dhurde in-charge of Science Public Outreach Programme at IUCAA introduced this mission to the students. Mr. Shivom Gupta, Project Assistant for Astronomy Outreach Programme and Miss SonalThorve gave training to the students. Our students were very excited for this innovative programme. Every studentwas given 2 unique codes to get the access to the camera mounted on the ISS. The students were able to learn about spacecraft orbits and Earth photography. They requested their desired images by tracking the orbit of the space station. They also had to check the weather to make sure that the ISS will have a clear view of the images.

It was a very great experience and the students enjoyed it a lot. We were very lucky to get such an opportunity. It was only possible because of the encouragement and support given by our headmistress Mrs. Madhuree Shah and the management of Progressive Education Society. We are really obliged to IUCAA for giving us such a wonderful opportunity and the technical team of Modern College for their valuable support.