05/05/2026
Participation of NEHU Students in the 23rd National Space Science Symposium (NSSS-2026):
The 23rd National Space Science Symposium (NSSS) -2026, a biennial event organized by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), bringing together researchers in atmospheric, space, planetary sciences, astronomy and solar space exploration. The 23rd NSSS-2026, hosted by the North Eastern Space Applications Centre (NESAC), Umiam, Meghalaya, from 23-27 February 2026, featuring 6 parallel sessions along with plenary and invited lectures.
As a part of NSSS 2026, under PS-6, a structured Regional Outreach programme (ROP) was conducted to facilitate interaction between UG and PG students of the North Eastern Region (NER) and eminent scientists and academicians. From the ROP organised in North Eastern Hill University (NEHU) for Meghalaya, comprising technical sessions of expert lectures, demonstrations and student presentations. Following the outreach programme, three students from the Department of Physics, NEHU, were selected to participate in the main symposium at NESAC. These students had the opportunity to present their research ideas before a distinguished audience of scientists and scholars.
Nameirakpam Dhanapriya Devi, a 4th semester postgraduate student, delivered an oral presentation titled “The Potential of Life in the Subsurface Oceans of Icy Moons.” Her presentation explored the exciting possibility of extraterrestrial life within the hidden oceans beneath the icy crusts of celestial bodies such as Europa and Enceladus.
Vedika Sharma, a 2nd semester postgraduate student, also presented an oral talk on “Daily Variability of Ionospheric TEC over Northern Region of India: Insights from the IRI Model.” Her work highlighted variations in the ionosphere and provided insights using the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) model.
In addition, Ashutosh Satapathy, a 2nd semester student postgraduate student, presented a poster titled “A Hybrid Sensing Material as Optical Pre-Seismic (OPS) Sensor and Microbial Pre-Seismic (MPS) Sensor for Earthquake Early Warning: Electro-Mechano-Luminescence.” His research focused on innovative sensing materials that could contribute to earthquake early warning systems.
All three students successfully presented their research ideas in their respective fields, representing the Department of Physics, NEHU, with great enthusiasm and academic merit.
The NSSS-2026 at NESAC witnessed participation of scientists from ISRO, experts, researchers, and students from across the country, creating a vibrant environment for scientific exchange, academic collaboration, and knowledge sharing. For the participating students, the symposium served as an invaluable opportunity to gain exposure, interact with leading scientists, and experience the broader landscape of space science research in India.
