Open Day 2026 – Exploring the Astronomical Heritage: IIA Library & Archives Exhibition
On 21 February 2026, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics marked National Science Day with its annual Open Day at the Koramangala campus in Bengaluru. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, welcoming over 8,000 visitors—including students, teachers, families, and science enthusiasts—who came together to explore the fascinating world of astronomy and the institute’s research activities. As part of this celebration, the IIA Library & Archives curated a special exhibition titled “Exploring the Astronomical Heritage,” showcasing the rich legacy preserved within its collections. The exhibition offered visitors a unique opportunity to engage with historical records and understand the evolution of astronomical research in India.
A key highlight of the exhibition was the display of archival materials related to eminent astronomers such as M. K. Vainu Bappu, N. R. Pogson, Charles Michie Smith, and John Evershed. These included rare documents, photographs, correspondence, and research records that highlighted their pioneering contributions and lasting impact on the development of modern astronomy in India. Visitors also showed great interest in a curated compilation of solar eclipses observed over the past 159 years, reflecting the institute’s long-standing commitment to documenting significant astronomical events. The exhibition further featured informative posters such as “Vainu Bappu Observatory: A Legacy of Astronomical Discovery,” “Legacy of Madras Observatory (1786–1899),” and “Evolution of Telescopes at IIA,” which visually traced the growth of observatories and advancements in telescope technology.
Another major attraction was the display of historical astronomical instruments, including the Evershed Effect Plate, Photometer, Transit Circle, Theodolite, and Drum Chronograph. These instruments captured the imagination of visitors and offered insights into the tools that shaped astronomical observations in earlier times. To make the experience more interactive, an “I Love Library” selfie point was set up in front of the library building. This quickly became a popular spot, adding a lively and engaging dimension to the exhibition while drawing attention to the library as a vibrant space for knowledge and discovery.
Throughout the day, the Library & Archives team actively engaged with visitors, explaining the significance of the collections and responding to a wide range of questions. These meaningful interactions helped visitors appreciate the value of preserving scientific heritage and deepened their understanding of the institute’s contributions to astronomy.
The exhibition served as a powerful bridge between the public and the rich astronomical legacy preserved at IIA. The enthusiastic participation and curiosity of thousands of visitors made it one of the standout highlights of the Open Day, reaffirming the vital role of libraries and archives in preserving and sharing knowledge with society.
