Date: 28th February 2026
Venue: Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), Khodad, Pune District
On National Science Day, celebrated annually on 28th February to commemorate the discovery of the Raman Effect by Sir C. V. Raman, Pune Hams (VU2RCP) were invited by the GMRT Project of NCRA–TIFR to participate in the celebrations. The GMRT, an iconic facility located near Narayangaon, is an array of thirty 45‑metre parabolic dishes spread over 25 km, making it the largest and most sensitive radio telescope in the world at metre wavelengths.
Visitors were greeted with a working Ham Radio station and colorful posters explaining how this scientific hobby connects people across the globe. The response was nothing short of phenomenal: on the very first day, more than 20,000 visitors — including scientists, students, and curious members of the public — explored the exhibit.
A team of 13 Hams and SWLs came together to make the event lively and interactive. The demonstrations included:
- HF/UHF Radio communication – showing how voices travel across distances without the internet.
- FT8 digital mode – a modern way of exchanging signals with minimal bandwidth.
- APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) – tracking positions and messages in real time.
- SSTV (Slow Scan Television) – receiving images from space, including the ISS.
- Fox Hunt (Radio Direction Finding) – a thrilling treasure hunt using radio signals.
The excitement was contagious. Students were amazed to see live signals bouncing across frequencies, while seasoned scientists appreciated the practical applications of Amateur Radio in emergencies and research.
National Science Day is more than a celebration — it’s a reminder that science is a way of thinking. It nurtures curiosity, encourages questioning, and empowers society through knowledge. In today’s fast‑moving world, scientific temper and rational thinking are more important than ever.
As Pune Hams, we believe in inspiring young minds to explore, experiment, and excel. Together, let’s continue to promote research, innovation, sustainability, and the joy of discovery for the betterment of humanity.
Happy National Science Day!
73’s
Vilas Rabde
Pune Hams – VU2RCP
📞 +91 98225 02078, +91 89990 55112
Radio Frequencies:
- VU2ETD – 144.800 MHz with 600 kHz –ve shift
- VU2DYQ – 434.100 MHz with +1.6 MHz +ve shift