Let's Explore Space with IAAC

TISB Grade 11 student, Varun, recently participated in the qualification round of the 2021 International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC). Being one of 8,500 participants from all over the world, Varun passed through the qualification round and has been selected for the pre-final round that is scheduled to take place between the 1-6 June 2021. We contacted Varun to find out more about the IAAC competition and what this means for the future.

I decided to participate in the IAAC as Astrophysics is my intended major – Varun, Grade 11

The IAAC is an online astronomy competition for High School and University students from all parts of the world, giving them a unique opportunity to show their knowledge and Astronomy skills. The competition is organised by the IAAC team, consisting of people from all around the world, and is divided into Junior (under 18 years old) and Senior (over 18 years old) categories. The winner in each category will receive a 150 USD cash prize, as well as the glory of winning.

The first qualifying round of the IAAC was held online between February and April. The participating students were provided a problem sheet and were tasked with solving as many problems as they could. Those students reaching more than 15 marks out of the total 25, moved on to the next round. Varun was one of them. “I have been interested in Astrophysics for a long time, and the IAAC was my first chance to prove my abilities in the field”, says Varun.

In the upcoming pre-final round, a series of 10 problems will be release on 1 June, consisting of simple, advanced and research problems. Varun and the other participants will have to solve as many problems as they can and submit them to the organisers by the 6 June. To qualify for the final round, participants will have to reach at least 25 marks out of the available 60.

Varun is excited about the competition, not only because of the prizes and recognition, but because it helps students discover and deepen their knowledge and interest in space. “I am excited about what this means for the advancement for the space industry”, says Varun, who believes this in turn will push more students to study Astrophysics and Astronomy. “I would encourage more students at TISB to participate in this competition from the next edition onwards”, says Varun, hoping that this could interest and encourage more students to take part in After School activities and Clubs that explores space.

For more information about the competition and to find out ways to join next year’s batch, visit the IAAC’s website.