🚀 START 2026: Igniting Young Minds in Space Science

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is stepping up its educational outreach with the inauguration of the fourth edition of its highly anticipated Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START 2026). Set to be inaugurated by Dr. V. Narayanan on March 11, 2026, this comprehensive programme is uniquely designed to attract brilliant minds toward the fascinating realm of space exploration and research.

4th
Programme Edition
23 Days
Training Duration
100%
Digital Access

🌌 Core Objectives & Delivery

START 2026 serves as a foundational bridge for students, exposing them to advanced concepts in astronomy, astrophysics, heliophysics, and planetary sciences.

📡 Seamless Digital Streaming
The inaugural session and subsequent lectures will be streamed live directly via ISRO's official YouTube channel, ensuring nationwide accessibility for all space enthusiasts.
💻 IIRS E-Learning Integration
Participant registration and module management are heavily streamlined through the centralized Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS) EduSAT portal.
🧠 Capacity Building
The long-term vision is to organically develop a skilled talent pool ready to contribute to India's future deep-space missions and scientific payloads.

📅 Schedule & Roadmap

The training schedule has been carefully curated to accommodate students without disrupting their standard academic routines.

  • 🎯 Inauguration Day: Kicking off on March 11, 2026, from 15:00 to 16:30 hrs.
  • ⏱️ Standard Timing: Regular sessions will be conducted daily from 15:15 to 16:45 hrs.
  • 🏁 Conclusion: The intensive awareness training will officially wrap up on April 2, 2026.

📚 Prelims Quiz Corner

1. Which edition of the Space Science and Technology Awareness Training (START) programme is being launched in March 2026?
  • A) 2nd Edition
  • B) 3rd Edition
  • C) 4th Edition
  • D) 5th Edition
Answer: C
2. Through which nodal institute's portal are participants required to register for ISRO's START 2026 programme?
  • A) VSSC (Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre)
  • B) IIRS (Indian Institute of Remote Sensing)
  • C) PRL (Physical Research Laboratory)
  • D) NRSC (National Remote Sensing Centre)
Answer: B
Source Information: ISRO Official Website Update (March 2026) Link to Original ISRO Notification Department of Space, Government of India