ISRO space laboratory inaugurated in remote Arunachal school

A state-of-the- art space laboratory was inaugurated on Friday at Mechuka Government Higher Secondary School in Arunachal Pradesh’s Shi-Yomi district, marking a milestone in bringing advanced scientific learning opportunities to one of the state’s most remote regions. The facility, set up through a collaboration between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Muskaan Foundation, aims to provide students with hands-on exposure to space science and technology, fostering curiosity, innovation, and scientific thinking among the among the youth.

The laboratory has been named the Pasang Wangchuk Sona ISRO Space Laboratory, in honour of the late father of Arunachal Pradesh Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona, who inaugurated the centre. The naming acknowledges his father’s lifelong belief in the transformative power of education. "Today marks an emotional and proud moment for me as I inaugurated the Pasang Wangchuk Sona ISRO Space Laboratory, dedicated to my late father. This is not just an educational facility, but a tribute to his unwavering belief in the power of education and curiosity. I hope it becomes a place where our children dream bigger, explore science fearlessly, and reach for the stars,” Sona said during the ceremony.

He emphasised that the lab will serve as a hub for learning and innovation, inspiring generations of students from Shi-Yomi district to pursue excellence in science and technology. The event was attended by Shi-Yomi Deputy Commissioner Liyi Bagra, Deputy Director of School Education Tade Dabi, Muskaan Foundation Chief Operating Officer Pranesh Debnath, alongside students, teachers, and community leaders, according to information.