DOST-NCR Creates a Spellbinding Experience with RTU; Jupiter, Saturn, Venus Add Spice to NSTW 2021

As the 2021 National Science and Technology Week highlights research and development (R&D) outputs and innovative products and services developed and offered by different agencies and Regional Offices of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to address the challenges brought about by the pandemic and climate change, the DOST-National Capital Region (NCR) demystifies astronomical sciences to introduce its practical applications, through a 3-day series dubbed as “Science and Technology Elevates Learning for Astronomy Research” (STELLAR) on November 23-25, 2021.

The DOST-NCR collaborated with the Rizal Technological University (RTU) for the event, featuring topics on space weather, possible forthcoming large-scale astronomical events, overview of the world and the universe, observational astronomy, and astro-technopreneurship discussed by RTU experts and resource persons from the DOST-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

Part of the STELLAR was a viewing session at RTU grounds which captured Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter.

The three-day series culminated with the Awarding Ceremony of the mobile photography contest themed “Astrophotography: Explore the Sky as Juan.”

RTU-CARD: NICER for Astronomical Sciences
The RTU hosts the Center for Astronomy Research and Development (CARD) funded under the Niche Centers in the Regions for R&D (NICER) of the DOST Science for Change Program.

The CARD conducts research on light pollution, instrumentation, astrophysics, space weather, and space technology. It also provides necessary facilities to harness knowledge about space science and technologies.

The CARD also holds leisure-oriented workshops and seminars on celestial navigations aiming to propel astronomy education toward the achievement of scientific excellence among Filipinos.

By: Monique C. Arcinue, SCCU