A student-led space movement from the colleges of Kerala, now in its fifth edition.
Born from the collective vision of astronomy and space clubs across Kerala, NOVA has grown into one of the state's most impactful student-led space initiatives. Now in its fifth edition, NOVA 5.0 continues to unite passionate students, innovators, and space enthusiasts through a shared commitment to advancing space science, technology, and research.
By fostering collaboration across engineering colleges, NOVA creates opportunities to learn, innovate, and explore beyond the classroom. More than just an event, it is a movement that empowers the next generation to dream bigger, think deeper, and shape the future of space exploration.
To create an inclusive platform that brings together students, researchers, and space enthusiasts to explore the wonders of space science and technology through inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, and innovative competitions. NOVA aims to foster curiosity, collaboration, and a lifelong passion for discovery.
Talks. Workshops. Competitions. Curiosity.
To ignite a passion for space exploration and empower young minds to innovate, discover, and shape the future of space science.
Inspiring Talks
Sessions that bring space science and technology to students and enthusiasts from leading experts.
Hands-on Workshops
Learning by building, for beginners and curious minds alike with real-world astronomical tools.
Innovative Competitions
Challenges that reward creative ideas and teamwork across engineering colleges of Kerala.
Collaboration & Discovery
An inclusive platform linking students, researchers and astronomy clubs across Kerala.
Events & Programme
Online Inaugural Ceremony & Talk Session
NOVA 5.0 officially begins with an inspiring talk by our Chief Guest from ISRO.
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Introduction to Rocketry: Design, Fabrication, Avionics
Covering the three core pillars of rocketry — design, construction, and avionics guidance systems.
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Cosmic Navigator: Journey Using Celestia
Navigate the cosmos using Celestia — travel across the solar system, past distant galaxies and explore the night sky.
NOVA 5.0 — Grand Day
09:00 AM – 04:30 PM · 24 October 2026 · RIT Kottayam
Workshop A
Processing Real Telescope Data with Astropy
Explore the world of astronomical data processing using Astropy, a powerful Python library widely used in astronomy and astrophysics. This session introduces participants to working with raw telescope data stored in FITS (Flexible Image Transport System) files, understanding metadata, and processing astronomical observations into meaningful information. Learn how data from professional telescopes, including the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), can be opened, interpreted, and analysed to study galaxies and other celestial objects.
Discover how Python bridges the gap between raw astronomical observations and scientific understanding, giving you a hands-on introduction to the tools astronomers use to explore the universe.
Workshop B
Escape Velocity: Piloting Space Flight Simulator
Design and launch your own rocket in a realistic space flight simulation, where every decision affects the success of your mission. Work within limits on mass, fuel, and rocket components to launch a payload into orbit. Understand how thrust and gravity determine liftoff, how a gravity turn helps a rocket enter orbit, and how to circularise an orbit to keep a spacecraft moving around Earth. Use the rocket equation to calculate Delta-v and understand how fuel consumption affects the distance your rocket can travel. Observe how atmospheric drag can affect rocket stability and lead to structural failures. For an advanced challenge, plan a mission to land on the Moon and return safely to Earth.
Experience the science behind spaceflight by applying physics, engineering, and mission planning to real challenges faced in space exploration.
DAY AT A GLANCE · 24 OCTOBER 2026
Our Coordinators
12 astronomy and space clubs from engineering colleges across Kerala.
Celestials
IIST
Vyom
CEP
Astronomical Society
RIT
Nexora
LBSITW
Orion
GECW
Astron
TKMCE
Celestia
NSSCE
AstroCET
CET
Astral Space Club
GECT
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Calypso
GCEK
AISA
MACE
IRES
CUSAT
Institution's Innovation Council
IIC
Glimpses of NOVA
Two editions, hundreds of curious minds. Here is where the journey began.
About RIT Kottayam
Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology (RIT), Kottayam, is a Government Engineering College fully owned and run by the Government of Kerala. Established in 1991 and named after former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, the institution was founded with the vision of developing a centre for higher technical education and research. Over the years, RIT has grown into one of Kerala's leading technical institutions, supported by extensive infrastructure and a strong academic environment.
Affiliated with APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU) and with its programmes approved by AICTE, RIT offers undergraduate, postgraduate and research opportunities across engineering, architecture and computer applications.
Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology
Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology, Vellore P.O, Pampady, Kottayam, Kerala 686501
Let's reach the stars together.
Want to be part of the launch?
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