Mathematical and Astronomical Society (MAS) is one of the most acclaimed societies in the University of Colombo. Its history goes back to 1959 when it was first inaugurated by the students of University of Ceylon, presently known as The University of Colombo.
The very first presidency was held by Mr. Chandra Wickramasinghe , an undergraduate at that time who later became a world famous astronomer while Mr. V.K.Samaranayake contributed as the secretary of the society. Both eventually became professors in their relevant fields of study.
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| Winners of the Star Quest -2009 Mahinda College, Galle |
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| The grand Final -2009 |
MAS has been fortunate to be graced by renowned astronomers and scientists when they were undergraduates. They are now serving all over the world especially at NASA in the field of astronomy.
Today Dr. Chandana Jayaratne serves as the Senior Treasurer and Advisor of the society. Additionally the University premises house the Molesworth's telescope which has a historical value too.
In order to bring about the true understanding of astronomy MAS regularly conducts a series of lectures as well as occasional observation camps. In its role of improving astronomy research, MAS has also been publishing an annual astronomy journal, called Sigma, since 1966. Majority of the content refers to updated issues of astronomy and space science.
Star Quest - The Quiz Competition
In an agenda to ameliorate the astronomy knowledge of school students in Sri Lanka, MAS has taken the initiative to organize an interschool astronomy Quiz Competition, named "Star Quest". Since its first appearance in 2008, it has continued to be the most awaited and reputed astronomy quiz of the island. For the 3rd successive year, "Star Quest 2010" will be held on May 29 2010, at the University of Colombo. Star Quest is also aimed at creating awareness and interest among students on both theoretical and practical aspects of astronomy.
The registration for Star Quest 2010 is now underway, and this time it's done online for the convenience of organizing. MAS has already mailed details on how to register, to many schools that have been archived with previous year's participation. The respective schools can register themselves @ http://starquest.uocmas.info/ by submitting the unique code they've been already sent. In case you've not yet been reached by MAS, you still do have a chance till May 20, when the application is supposed to be closed. All you got to do is, contact MAS by email admin@uocmas.info or over phone (Chethya : 0718135177) and express your willingness in taking part. You will then be issued the codes accordingly, to complete the registration process. Read the next Sunday Times to gather more information about the quiz and the rules and regulations.
Celestra 2010- Astronomy Workshop
Celestra 2010 is an astronomy workshop that will take place on June 6 2010 at the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo. This 1-day event is planned at raising students' enthusiasm and letting their vivid imaginations to think astronomically and scientifically. It is also envisaged to inspire the participants to pursue careers in astronomy when it comes to their professional life.
Basically there will be sessions covering Astrophotography, Water Rocketry, and Spectroscopy. This will be a good chance for any student interested in astronomy to boost their passion despite being an amateur or a veteran.
More information is available at official
website http://uocmas.info |
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