The 4th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics for Juniors (IOAA-Jr.) 2025 was held at Piatra Neamț, Romania, from October 18 to 25, 2025. The Indian team competed with students from 22 participating countries and delivered an outstanding performance, bringing laurels to the nation with the following achievements:
These achievements reflect India’s growing strength in astronomy and astrophysics education at the junior level.
The National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Ministry of Culture, Government of India, is the Authorized National Representative Astronomical Organization (ANRAO) for organizing the Junior Astronomy Olympiad Programme in India.
NCSM is responsible for selecting and training a team of three students to represent India at the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics for Juniors (IOAA-Jr.) through the Indian National Junior Astronomy Olympiad (INJAO) programme.
The National Council of Science Museums (NCSM) is an autonomous scientific organization under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India. It administers 26 science centers and museums across the country, working to promote science education and scientific temper among students and the general public.
The Indian National Junior Astronomy Olympiad follows a five-stage selection process, designed to identify and nurture young talent in astronomy and astrophysics. Formal training begins at the third stage, while the first two stages are based on concepts from the regular school curriculum.
The National Standard Examination in Junior Science (NSEJS), conducted by the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), serves as the first stage of the selection process.
Top performers in NSEJS qualify for INJSO. From this stage onward, the programme is coordinated by NCSM. Approximately 20 students are selected for the Orientation-cum-Selection Camp.
At OCSC, students receive intensive training in theoretical and observational astronomy, with a focus on conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and night-sky observations.
The selected Indian team undergoes advanced training at one of the NCSM science centers, strengthening their theoretical and observational skills in preparation for the international competition.
The final team of three students represents India at the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics for Juniors (IOAA-Jr.), accompanied by Team Leaders and/or Scientific Observers. Historically, Indian teams have consistently performed well, with most participants returning with medals.
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