Astronomy is an outstanding scientific subject that has inspired us, humans, for thousands of years: By looking into the sky and imagining the earth as a tiny boat in the depth of space, we feel connected and curious about all the planets, stars, and galaxies out there.
The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition takes this fascination sparking subject and allows students to challenge their astronomy and astrophysics knowledge in a friendly competition and - by participating - to learn more about this exciting subject and to extend their horizon.
The competition has the aim to be accessible to all students from all countries regardless of their background, school, or institution. For that, the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition uses today's technologies and the global connection through the internet to make this competition possible: All you need is a pen, paper, and an internet connection to participate!
In general, astronomy is an excellent motivation for students to get in touch with science. Our society needs capable scientists and engineers that develop, shape and maintain the innovations of the future. The initial motivation through scientific events and competitions can encourage students to a professional career as a researcher or engineer.
This year, over 6500 students from more than 98 countries used this opportunity to train their astronomy skills. The students Muhammad Rehmoz Salahuddin Ayub, Soumya Sarkar, Mooneesah Abeer Fatimah received the international 1., 2. and 3. prize in the youth category and Gopalchetty Tejaswi, Yafi Amri, Omar Khattab received the international 1., 2. and 3. prize in the junior category. However, many additional students received the special national awards for being the best participants from their respective country, as well as several outstanding schools.
In an interview, the international award winner Muhammad Rehmoz Salahuddin Ayub says "IAAC has been a fascinating experience for me. Apart from getting international exposure and recognition, I have also realized the importance of perseverance, and how one should keep on trying, dream big and have the confidence to make those dreams come true."
Furthermore, the award winner Gopalchetty Tejaswi explains his love for astronomy: "I am interested in astronomy because it provides us with in-depth knowledge about the world around us and beyond. It makes us understand what the universe is and how it works." He received encouragement from his family: "My interest in astronomy has been impacted by my elder brother. Having a deep interest in space since childhood, he sets my ambition to become an astrophysicist."
The IAAC participants have a keen interest in astronomy and science. This competition encourages to engage with astronomy in the future and to pursue a scientific career. This also applies to the award winner Soumya Sarkar: "I am very much interested in research work. So I will do my PhD and probably be doing research on gravitational-wave astronomy. I love this part most and really look forward to working in this field."
The official announcement with all winners and awards is available on the IAAC website: https://iaac.space/en/announcement2020
Link To Article: https://youth-journal.org/international-astronomy-and-astrophysics-competition-result
