We are thankful to Mr. G N V Prasad, Group Director, Programme, Planning & Evaluation Group and Mr. H.L. Srinivasa, Scientist, ISRO Satellite Centre for giving opportunity to our students for visiting their esteemed campus. We extend our gratitude to Management, Faculty of Engineering, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalorefor supporting us in conducting such learning activities.

Details of Members Visited :

On 28th July, 2016, Thursday, the 3BTCS C students along with the faculty left the Kengeri campus by bus at 11:30 am. It reached ISAC campus on Old Airport Road at around 1:30 pm. After finishing reception formalities, everyone was given a pass and entered the ISAC exhibition hall. Mr. Srinivas of ISAC received us and guided us through the exhibition. Initially, there were different models of the rockets. Older rockets were displayed along with the modern PSLV and GSLV.

• Students were introduced to different types of rockets & satellites developed till now at ISRO and their purpose by Mr. H.L.Srinivasa. Then we were informed about different centres of ISRO all over India & their purpose.
• Mr. Srinivas explained the various features of the rockets. Next, there were the models of satellites including the oldest Apple satellites and the later satellites with solar panels, solar sail and minor rockets present on the satellites for adjusting their positions in space. The reason for gold color coating on the satellites for handling extremes of temperature was explained. Two types of satellites were described: Indian Remote Sensing Satellites and Communication Satellites. Remote sensing satellites are useful in activities like fishing (identifying places in the sea where fish can be found) and warnings about cyclones. During cyclone Hudhud, damage to human life was made minimal due to warnings.
• Then, we were shown the different electronic components used in satellites. The components need to be very sturdy. Currently, they are therefore imported and very expensive. The use of aluminium honey comb material for body parts was demonstrated. These parts are light and yet very strong.
• Next, we witnessed a “clean room” where satellite is assembled. A satellite in space faces extremes of temperature such as -120 degrees to +120 degrees Celsius. We were taken to a room where there is a chamber for testing this. The chamber gets liquid nitrogen for testing against low temperature and similarly testing hot temperature. Only after thorough testing, satellite is taken by road to the launching pad at Sriharikota.
• There was a video session which presented ISAC activities. Mr. Srinivas took up answering many questions from students regarding ISRO, ISRO activities and space mission related topics. He explained the various job requirements at ISAC and the minimum marks criteria for selection. He also mentioned about the ISAC campus which students can join after 12 th standard.
• Regarding research, he mentioned that ISRO and Nuclear Energy come directly under PMO. They do not undertake research partnerships with universities/colleges. However, they are willing to help and encourage universities to build their own satellites which ISRO can launch. The cost of a launch may be about Rupees 4 to 5 crores.
• After returning the passes, we boarded the bus at 4:00 pm. The bus reached Kengeri campus at around 5:30 pm. No photographs were taken as photography was strictly not allowed at ISAC.

List of Members Visited.