IRES SEDS CUSAT to Host SpaceUp 2024: A Celebration of Space Enthusiasm and Innovation

Kochi: On October 26, 2024, IRES SEDS CUSAT, the aerospace club of Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), will once again bring together space enthusiasts for its annual SpaceUp unconference. Renowned for its excellence in organizing space-related events, IRES SEDS CUSAT has established itself as a leader in the field, attracting a growing community of participants year after year. Last year's event made headlines as India’s largest space unconference, with over 400 attendees, and this year’s edition is set to surpass expectations with more than 600 confirmed participants.

What is SpaceUp?

SpaceUp is not your typical conference—it’s an "unconference." This format allows for greater flexibility and interaction, encouraging attendees to contribute to discussions, participate in hands-on activities, and engage in dynamic sessions where knowledge-sharing is key. SpaceUp 2024 promises to uphold this spirit, featuring a wide array of talk sessions, parallel workshops, and a mega quiz. It provides a unique platform where students, professionals, and space enthusiasts can learn, collaborate, and share innovative ideas.

A Stellar Lineup of Speakers

This year’s SpaceUp will feature an impressive array of distinguished speakers from the aerospace sector. The headliner is none other than Dr. Murthy Remilla, the project head of the Gaganyaan mission. With a career spanning over 25 years across technical, business, and management fields, Dr. Remilla’s expertise and contributions to India’s space program make him a source of immense inspiration for the next generation of space professionals.

Joining him is Dr. R. Satheesh Thampi, the head of the Planetary Science Branch at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and the Principal Investigator of the PAPA payload on the Aditya-L1 mission. Dr. Thampi’s work is at the forefront of solar research, and his dedication to expanding our understanding of planetary science is a highlight for attendees eager to learn about the latest advancements in space exploration.

Dr. D. Jagadheep, a professor of Earth Science and Space at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), is another notable speaker. His involvement in major projects such as the Max Planck Partner Group for Galactic Star Formation showcases his significant contributions to astronomy. Nikhitha Chadde, co-founder and COO of Genex Space, will also be sharing her insights. Known for her role in space education and her work in developing educational content for ISRO, Nikhitha has become a key advocate for STEM education, inspiring young minds across the globe.

Engaging Workshops for Hands-On Learning

SpaceUp 2024 will offer three parallel workshops, each led by experts in their fields. Dr. Yedu Krishna, the founder of Specrule Scientific Pvt. Ltd., will conduct a workshop on laser applications and spectroscopic techniques. His background in aerospace engineering and photonics promises an in-depth exploration of cutting-edge technologies.

For those fascinated by astrophotography, Amal Sree Ajith, an accomplished astrophotographer and director board member of Shasthrasnehi, will guide participants through the process of capturing breathtaking images of the night sky. The final workshop will be led by Team Marutsaka, a group of talented engineering students who specialize in design and innovation. Their session is sure to inspire aspiring designers with creative and practical insights.

Building a Community of Space Enthusiasts

Year after year, SpaceUp continues to grow, both in scale and impact. This year’s event will provide a collaborative and interactive environment that encourages creativity and innovation. With a commitment to nurturing the next generation of space explorers, IRES SEDS CUSAT is fostering a thriving community of space enthusiasts, helping to push the boundaries of space exploration and education.

As SpaceUp 2024 draws near, the event stands as a symbol of IRES SEDS CUSAT’s dedication to space science and its mission to inspire a future where space exploration knows no limits. For all those who are passionate about the stars, SpaceUp 2024 is set to be an unforgettable experience, one that celebrates human curiosity and the quest to reach beyond our planet.

Inspiring the Future of Space Exploration With an exceptional lineup of speakers, interactive workshops, and a dynamic unconference format, SpaceUp 2024 is poised to be a pivotal event in the world of space enthusiasts. As IRES SEDS CUSAT continues its mission to inspire and educate, SpaceUp 2024 will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on all who attend, fueling a brighter future for space exploration