Exploring%20Science

Astronomical Observatory

In the year 1982 due to the zeal and perseverance of a Panaji resident and retired govt. officer Mr Percival Noronha, the Association of Friends of Astronomy (AFA) was founded by a group of astronomy enthusiasts in Panaji (Goa).

Basically dedicated to the appreciation and popularization of Amateur Astronomy the association was successful in founding The Public Astronomical observatory at Panaji (PAO)…The first public observatory in India to be funded by the government and run voluntarily by an NGO…
 

The Association of Friends of Astronomy. In the initial years of formation the Members of AFA concentrated on stabilizing the organization by acquiring telescopes, instruments and infrastructure for the observatory; a modest beginning was also made in starting a library by getting astronomy and science books and subscribing for different magazines. Different activities like school programmes, lectures, study tours, exhibitions, workshops, star parties, competitions,quizzes, photography outings were started and are still being sustained by the present members.

GOA SCIENCE CENTRE

Goa Science Centre is a new & Latest tourist attraction of Goa! Located on the picturesque Miramar Beach in the capital city of Panaji, the Centre houses many wonders of Science and Astronomy. Do not miss this place when you are in Goa. Come to explore & enjoy the excitement of Science.

Goa Science Centre is a constituent unit of National Council of Science Museums functioning under the Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India who is having vast experience of developing a chain of 29 science Centres all over India including the Science City at Kolkata. Goa Science Centre was developed as a joint project of the NCSM and Department of Science Technology & Environment, Govt. of Goa. The Govt. of Goa has leased 5acres of land in a prime location at Miramar for this centre and has actively collaborated in the development of the project. The challenging work of setting up this Centre was started in 1999 and was completed in a record time of 2and a half years. The entire development work, Design & fabrication of Exhibits etc. is carried out under the guidance of Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai which is the regional headquarters for the Science Centres in Western India. Goa Science Centre was opened to the public from 19th December, 2001. The main objectives of the centre are to inculcate a scientific temper particularly among the young generation and to popularize science by bringing the excitement of Science & Technology for the common people. Main features of the Science Centre are its interactive Exhibition Galleries, Science Park specially designed programmes and activities. For students Goa Science Centre is a treasure of scientific information and a place to learn science in a nonformal way in an open environment. For common people visit to Goa Science Centre means a thrilling, joyful & memorable experience. Goa Science Centre is a perfect place of edutainment for entire family.