Photo 1
Photo 2
HYDERABAD
Sky gazing is a fascinating experience but watching a satellite launch is great luck. The students of the girls’ high school «St Francis» had this rare opportunity. The group was selected among the 750 students from all over India. The announcements of the selection and the visit to Sri Hari Kota added excitement to the 30 girls chosen. On 5th August, the selected students along with teachers were instructed by headmistress Sr. Gracy about the journey to Sri Hari Kota and with the consent letters of their parents, they assembled at the school campus at the given time. The parents of the students and the cooperator Mrs Deepika came to see them off. They sang the National Anthem in honour of the Country and the school with three cheers in a chorus. Then started the bus journey at 9:15 p.m., accompanied by Sr. Gracy and six teachers. The sisters and priests of Koduru and Tada made the accommodation comfortable and two hours at Koduru beach was a pleasant refreshment for them.
On the most awaited day, the team headed to Sri Hari Kota, where it was welcomed at the main gate amidst tight security. Students and teachers were wonderstruck by the majesty of the «ISRO» building. There were numerous journalists and the interviews of the participants were
telecasted on national channels. Later, they gathered in the auditorium where they interacted with the chairman of «ISRO» and finally the most awaited moment arrived, the launch of «SSLV D2». It was spectacular seeing the satellite launched right in front of us. The satellite was supposed to reach the equatorial orbit but due to altitudinal variations, it did not reach its designed destination. The students did not receive the news as a failure but as a stepping-stone to success. The team boarded the bus and reached Secunderabad safely on 8 August. This trip was enlightening and emotional and it will continue to increase curiosity among the students in the field of science. They expressed their gratitude to the Management and the teachers for this opportunity.