Aurelia’24: Exploring the Sun – A Celestial Adventure Beyond the Horizon

On Wednesday, February 26th, 2025, the highly anticipated Aurelia’24: Solar Observation Camp took place, offering students an unforgettable journey into the wonders of the solar system. Organized by the school’s Astronomical Society in collaboration with the Institute of Astronomy Sri Lanka, the event provided a rare opportunity to witness and learn about the Sun’s mysteries and solar phenomena.

Over 200 students participated in this exciting event, which unfolded right on the school premises. The day began with engaging sessions led by experts from the Institute of Astronomy Sri Lanka, where students gained valuable insights into solar activities such as sunspots, solar flares, and the Sun’s vital role in sustaining life on Earth. The sessions offered a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical observation, with students using specialized solar telescopes to safely observe the Sun’s surface.

The highlight of the camp was the hands-on experience of observing the Sun through these advanced telescopes, guided by experienced lecturers from the Institute of Astronomy. Students had the opportunity to see the Sun’s dynamic surface up close, sparking curiosity and deepening their understanding of our solar system.

In addition to the solar observation activities, the event featured an Egg Rocket Competition, adding a fun, competitive edge to the day. Teams of students worked together to design and launch “rockets” made from simple materials, aiming to send an egg as high as possible without breaking it. This lively competition fostered teamwork, creativity, and innovation, all while keeping the students engaged and entertained.

The Aurelia’24 Solar Observation Camp concluded successfully, leaving participants inspired and eager to explore more about the cosmos. The event was a tremendous success, thanks to the collaborative efforts of the Astronomical Society and the Institute of Astronomy Sri Lanka. It’s clear that the camp sparked a deeper interest in space and astronomy, with many students now eager to continue their exploration of the universe.

We look forward to more exciting initiatives that will inspire students to reach for the stars!