Star Citizens

Six Young Researchers Earn Infosys Prize 2026 for Ideas Shaping Tomorrow!

Six researchers under the age of 40 have won the prestigious Infosys Prize 2026, earning recognition for their outstanding contributions to science, technology, economics and the humanities. Their work spans fields ranging from climate change and wireless communication to human health, mathematics and quantum physics.Announced by the Infosys Science Foundation (ISF), the awards celebrate exceptional research that expands knowledge and addresses some of the world's most important challenges. Each winner will receive a gold medal, a citation and a prize purse of USD 100,000.Meet the Six Researchers Making a DifferenceThe six laureates were selected by international panels of distinguished scholars and experts. Here is a look at their remarkable contributions.1. Karthik Sastry – EconomicsAn Associate Professor at Princeton University, Karthik Sastry has been recognised for his research on climate change, technological innovation and economic fluctuations. His work explores how societies can adapt to climate challenges through technological progress, offering valuable insights for future policymaking.2. Swarun Kumar – Engineering and Computer ScienceAn Assistant Professor at Carnegie Mellon University, Swarun Kumar is pushing the boundaries of wireless technology. His research explores how wireless networks can do more than transmit information. They can also sense their surroundings and interact with the physical world, opening new possibilities in connectivity, sensing and automation.3. Gautam Bhatia – Humanities and Social SciencesLegal scholar Gautam Bhatia has been recognised for his influential work on constitutional law and social justice. Through five books and several academic articles, he explores how law can help build a fairer, more equal and humane society.4. Isha Jain – Life SciencesAn Associate Investigator at the Gladstone Institutes and Assistant Professor at the University of California, San Francisco, Isha Jain has made important discoveries in oxygen biology. Her research has revealed how excess oxygen can contribute to tissue damage in certain mitochondrial diseases. She is also exploring new treatment approaches for inherited metabolic disorders.5. Riddhipratim Basu – Mathematical SciencesAn Associate Professor at ICTS-TIFR in Bengaluru, Riddhipratim Basu has made significant contributions to probability theory and statistical physics. His research has solved longstanding mathematical problems and advanced understanding of complex systems.6. Manoj Kumar Joshi – Physical SciencesAn experimental physicist at the Singapore University of Technology and Design, Manoj Kumar Joshi is developing programmable quantum machines using trapped ions. His work is helping scientists study complex quantum systems and explore possibilities beyond the capabilities of conventional computers.Encouraging the Next Generation of ResearchersEstablished in 2009, the Infosys Prize has become an important platform for recognising research excellence. Since 2024, it has focused on honouring researchers below the age of 40, encouraging promising talent early in their careers. The achievements of its past laureates offer an inspiring legacy. Several have gone on to receive prestigious international honours, including Nobel Prizes and Fields Medals.By recognising these six researchers, the Infosys Science Foundation is celebrating not just individual achievements but also the power of curiosity, scientific inquiry and fresh ideas to address complex challenges. Their work is a reminder that today's research can become tomorrow's solutions.

12 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

An Equation for Excellence: Professor Neela Nataraj Earns Prestigious Global Fellowship

Adding another remarkable achievement to India's academic landscape, Prof. Neela Nataraj of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has been elected a Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). The prestigious international recognition celebrates her outstanding contributions to mathematics and her efforts towards advancing scientific research in developing countries.A leading researcher in applied mathematics, Nataraj's achievement places her among an international community of scientists recognised for their exceptional research and contributions to scientific progress.A Mathematician Making a Global ImpactProf. Neela Nataraj is a distinguished faculty member in IIT Bombay's Department of Mathematics. Her research focuses on numerical analysis, particularly finite element methods used to solve complex partial differential equations.While these mathematical concepts may sound highly specialised, they play an important role in solving real-world problems. From engineering and scientific modelling to computational simulations, such methods help researchers understand complex systems and develop practical solutions.Through her research, Nataraj has contributed significantly to applied mathematics and scientific computing, fields that support advancements across several scientific and technological disciplines. Her election as a TWAS Fellow recognises not just individual academic excellence but also her sustained contribution to strengthening scientific research.From IIT Delhi to Academic Excellence at IIT BombayNataraj completed her PhD from IIT Delhi in 1998. She began her academic career at the institution as a faculty member in 1999 before joining IIT Bombay in 2003. Over the years, she progressed through several academic positions, becoming a full professor in 2014 and subsequently an Institute Chair Professor.Alongside her research contributions, she has also played an important role in teaching and academic leadership. Her dedication to education earned her the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) Teachers Award in 2019, recognising her excellence in teaching. She has also received several other academic distinctions, including the prestigious JC Bose Fellowship, adding to her reputation as an accomplished researcher and educator.What Makes the TWAS Fellowship Special?Established in 1983 in Trieste, Italy, The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) works to promote scientific excellence and strengthen research capabilities in developing countries. Founded under the leadership of Nobel laureate Abdus Salam, the organisation brings together distinguished scientists from across the world.Its initiatives support scientific collaboration, encourage young researchers and help strengthen research institutions in developing nations. Being elected a TWAS Fellow is therefore a significant international honour, recognising scientists whose work contributes to the advancement of knowledge and scientific capacity.Inspiring the Next Generation of ResearchersProf. Neela Nataraj's achievement is another reminder of the remarkable contributions Indian researchers are making to global science. Her journey, spanning decades of research, teaching and academic leadership, highlights the importance of curiosity, perseverance and dedication to knowledge.As she joins the distinguished fellowship of TWAS, her recognition brings international attention to India's growing contributions to mathematical sciences and research.

11 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

No Internet, No Problem! Hyderabad Teen Builds Satellite Device for Himalayan Villages

Imagine being in a remote mountain village during heavy rainfall, with no internet or mobile connectivity and little access to weather information. For many Himalayan communities, this is a familiar challenge. Now, a Hyderabad teenager has come up with an innovative solution that could help bridge this information gap.Meet Aagam Jain, a Class 12 student at Indus International School, Hyderabad, who has developed SummitSathi, an affordable satellite-based weather receiver that can download cloud images directly from weather satellites without requiring an internet connection.As reported by The Hans India, the device costs approximately ₹68,000 per unit, and three receivers are planned for deployment across 10 villages in Himachal Pradesh's Seraj Valley in Mandi district.An Idea Born During a Mountain TrekThe inspiration behind SummitSathi came from a trek near Dehradun, where Aagam experienced firsthand how poor mobile connectivity could cut off access to weather information. The experience made him think about people living in remote Himalayan settlements, where difficult terrain and unpredictable weather can disrupt communication networks, particularly during the monsoon.He began exploring how satellite technology could provide an alternative way to access weather-related information when conventional networks are unavailable. The result was SummitSathi, which receives cloud imagery directly from passing weather satellites. Unlike regular weather applications that depend on internet connectivity, the device can access these images independently of mobile networks.Taking Satellite Technology to Remote VillagesThe project plans to install three receivers across 10 villages in Seraj Valley. Importantly, the initiative is also involving local communities rather than depending entirely on outside technical support. Three local operators have already been trained to operate the equipment, helping ensure that residents can use the technology when needed.However, the team has clarified that the device is not a cloudburst prediction system and does not replace official weather forecasts, emergency alerts or government warnings. It provides an additional source of weather-related information through satellite imagery.A Young Mind Exploring ScienceSummitSathi is not Aagam's first scientific undertaking. According to reports, the young innovator has also pursued independent research in astronomy and environmental studies. Over 24 months, he recorded night-sky brightness at 25 locations across Hyderabad to study urban light pollution. He has also self-published an astrophotography book titled A Window to the Universe.From exploring the mysteries of the night sky to developing technology for mountain communities, Aagam's journey reflects how curiosity can lead to meaningful innovation.And with SummitSathi set to reach Himalayan villages, this young innovator's idea could help communities stay better informed when connectivity goes missing.

10 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

Breaking Period Taboos: Delhi Teen Aadvik Jain Wins Prestigious Diana Award

Sometimes, a small moment of concern can spark a movement that reaches thousands. For Delhi teenager Aadvik Jain, it began with a close friend's struggle with severe menstrual cramps during her school examinations. Today, that concern has grown into Team Period, a youth-led initiative working to break the silence around menstruation. His efforts have now earned him the prestigious 2026 Diana Award, recognising young people making a positive difference in their communities.At 18, Aadvik is among 198 young people from 44 countries honoured this year. The awardees were announced at a virtual ceremony on November 4.A Friend's Pain Sparked a Bigger QuestionThe incident happened in 2023, when Aadvik and his friend were in Class 10. She was experiencing intense menstrual cramps that left her in tears and forced her to visit the school medical room. Despite receiving a painkiller and going home, she returned the following day still struggling with the discomfort.What troubled Aadvik even more was the lack of understanding surrounding her condition. Her parents initially suspected she was trying to avoid examinations, while her pain affected her ability to concentrate in class. After speaking to his mother, the family reached out to the girl's parents and encouraged medical consultation. She was subsequently diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while doctors also investigated the possibility of endometriosis.The experience made Aadvik question why menstrual pain was not treated with the same urgency as other health concerns. He also realised that awareness needed to extend beyond girls to include boys, fathers and families.Team Period: Turning Awareness into ActionIn 2024, Aadvik joined hands with three friends, Shivansh Arora, Aaratrika Jha Anand and Navya Manglik, to launch Team Period. The initiative began through a school social-impact programme but soon grew into a wider effort involving workshops, health camps, street performances, flash mobs and interactive activities.According to The Times of India, one particularly creative initiative involved wearing red patches on school uniforms to challenge the embarrassment surrounding visible menstrual stains. The idea encouraged students to question why an accidental food stain was considered normal while a menstrual stain was treated as something shameful.The team also conducted workshops teaching middle-school students to make simple heating pads using socks filled with lentils or chickpeas.Beyond Awareness: Making a DifferenceTeam Period has collected around 4,000 survey responses from students, parents and community members to understand attitudes towards menstruation.It has also installed a sanitary pad dispenser at Aadvik's school, making menstrual products more accessible without students having to ask someone for them. The team hopes to expand such facilities to other schools and explore better disposal solutions. Its work has reached government schools, orphanages and underserved neighbourhoods in Delhi.A Recognition That Can Take the Movement FurtherFor Aadvik, the Diana Award is more than a personal achievement. He hopes the recognition will help Team Period connect with sponsors, build partnerships and expand its reach through local chapters and volunteers speaking different regional languages.Set to begin studying medicine and public health at the University of Bologna in Italy in February 2027, Aadvik hopes to pursue a future in public health.What began with one friend's pain has become a mission to make menstrual health a conversation everyone can participate in. And this young changemaker is determined to ensure that no one has to suffer in silence.

10 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

Hrithik Roshan Becomes First Indian Actor to Attend LACMA Art + Film Gala, Greets Los Angeles With a Namaste

A stylish black tuxedo, a star-studded red carpet and a traditional Indian namaste! Bollywood superstar Hrithik Roshan made a memorable appearance at the 2026 LACMA Art + Film Gala in Los Angeles on November 7, becoming the first mainstream Indian actor to attend the prestigious event.Sharing the spotlight with some of the biggest names in global entertainment, Hrithik added a touch of Indian charm to one of Hollywood's most celebrated cultural gatherings.A Namaste That Stole the SpotlightDressed in a custom-tailored black tuxedo by Italian luxury fashion house Brunello Cucinelli, Hrithik looked effortlessly sophisticated as he arrived at the gala.However, it was his warm namaste greeting to the shutterbugs that caught particular attention. A video shared by the official Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) handle showed the actor greeting photographers with folded hands, bringing a familiar Indian gesture to the international red carpet.According to Hindustan Times, Hrithik was hosted at the gala by Kavita Gupta, an Indian-origin producer, venture capitalist and member of the International Emmy Board, who has been championing Indian talent on the global stage.Sharing the Red Carpet With Global IconsThe evening brought together some of the biggest personalities from cinema, music, fashion and art. Among the prominent attendees were Leonardo DiCaprio, Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Nicole Kidman, Timothée Chalamet, Andrew Garfield, Michelle Yeoh, Anya Taylor-Joy, BLACKPINK's Rosé and aespa's Ningning.The 2026 gala was co-chaired by Leonardo DiCaprio and LACMA trustee Eva Chow. This year's celebration honoured filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, known for Dune, and acclaimed artist Vija Celmins for their contributions to film and the arts.Backed by luxury fashion house Gucci, the annual event celebrates the intersection of art, cinema and culture while supporting LACMA's artistic initiatives.Taking Indian Star Power GlobalOn the professional front, Hrithik was recently seen in a surprise cameo in Nelson Dilipkumar's Jailer 2, which released on October 15, 2026. Hrithik's appearance marks a notable moment for Indian cinema, highlighting the growing visibility of Indian talent at prestigious international cultural platforms. He represented Indian star power alongside global icons. The actor's latest appearance is another proud moment for his fans.And this time, it wasn't just his style that made headlines. It was also the Indian greeting that accompanied his arrival!

9 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

Kavita Chand Becomes First Indian to Complete Mount Kilimanjaro Round Trip in Under 24 Hours!

What usually takes mountaineers five to nine days, Indian endurance athlete and mountaineer Kavita Chand has accomplished in less than a day! In an extraordinary display of stamina, determination and mental strength, she has become the first Indian to complete the Mount Kilimanjaro round trip in under 24 hours.Kavita conquered Africa's highest mountain and returned to the starting point in an impressive 22 hours and 36 minutes, setting a remarkable milestone for Indian mountaineering.A Race Against Time on Africa's Highest PeakKavita undertook the challenging Mweka Gate–Uhuru Peak–Mweka Gate route, covering the ascent and descent in one continuous expedition. She reached Uhuru Peak, standing tall at 5,895 metres, in just 12 hours and 46 minutes before making her way back down.The achievement is particularly remarkable given the physical demands of climbing Kilimanjaro. Most expeditions take five to nine days to complete the journey, allowing climbers sufficient time to adjust to the progressively thinning air at higher altitudes. Kavita, however, pushed the boundaries of endurance with her exceptional speed-climbing performance.Months of Preparation Behind the RecordSuch an extraordinary feat was backed by months of disciplined training and high-altitude experience.Her preparation included three months of intensive training for the Chicago Marathon, held on October 11. She covered approximately 70–90 kilometres every week and incorporated strength training three times a week into her routine. She also finished as the third-fastest Indian woman at the marathon.Soon afterwards, she travelled to Nepal for an expedition to Himlung Himal (7,126 metres). Although she did not reach its summit, she successfully acclimatised to approximately 6,600 metres, gaining valuable high-altitude experience ahead of her Kilimanjaro challenge.Speaking about the achievement, Kavita said that Kilimanjaro was already part of her Seven Summits journey. The suggestion of attempting a speed climb made the expedition even more exciting, turning an already planned ascent into a unique endurance challenge.She also acknowledged the contribution of Bharath and Romil from Boots & Crampons and the entire support team in making the attempt possible.Another Step Towards the Seven Summits DreamKilimanjaro is the fifth mountain Kavita has climbed as part of her ambitious Seven Summits journey, which involves scaling the highest mountain on each of the seven continents. Her previous climbs include Elbrus, Denali, Vinson and Aconcagua. Beyond mountaineering, she has also made her mark in long-distance running, completing five of the six World Marathon Majors.The expedition was coordinated by Boots & Crampons in collaboration with a local Tanzanian team, which managed route planning, logistics and safety arrangements. Kavita's remarkable performance is more than a personal triumph. It demonstrates what focused preparation, resilience and the courage to push beyond perceived limits can achieve.

7 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

From Kerala Roots to Los Angeles Mayor-Elect: Nithya Raman's Inspiring Journey

Celebrations have begun in Kerala, as Nithya Raman prepares to take charge as the mayor of Los Angeles. The 45-year-old Indian-origin politician defeated incumbent Karen Bass in the November 2026 election, emerging as the city's mayor-elect.For her relatives in Kerala, the victory is deeply personal. The family WhatsApp group, 'Vanajappa Family', was flooded with congratulatory messages as members followed the election results. They remembered Nithya as the little girl who once played on Ramaswamy Kovil Road in Thiruvananthapuram.Her father, Venkitaraman, worked with Keltron, while her mother, Sudha, was employed with Indian Overseas Bank. The family lived in Thiruvananthapuram before moving to Thrissur, her mother's hometown, when her father went to the United States for higher studies. Nithya was born in Thrissur and attended Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan before the family settled in Boston when she was six.Despite moving abroad, the family continued visiting India to stay connected with their roots.From Harvard and MIT to Community ActionNithya's academic journey took her to two of the world's leading institutions. She graduated in Social Studies from Harvard University in 2003 and earned a postgraduate degree in Urban Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2008.However, her interest in solving everyday urban problems brought her back to India after graduation. At just 23, she founded Transparent Chennai, an organisation that worked to address civic challenges, including sanitation and access to basic services.In 2013, she moved to Los Angeles, where she became involved in neighbourhood efforts to tackle homelessness. Her work with local communities gradually brought her into the city's political landscape.A Political Journey That Makes HistoryRaman entered electoral politics in 2020 and won a seat on the Los Angeles City Council, defeating a long-serving incumbent. Six years later, she took on Mayor Karen Bass in a closely watched mayoral contest.Her campaign focused on tackling homelessness, improving housing affordability and strengthening basic city services. The devastating Los Angeles fires of 2025 and the city's response also became major issues during the campaign.Her victory makes her the first challenger to defeat a sitting Los Angeles mayor in more than two decades. She is set to become the city's next mayor following her election victory and the incumbent's concession.A Love for Culture and DanceBeyond politics, Nithya has a deep interest in Indian classical dance. During her time in India, she trained in Bharatanatyam under acclaimed dancer Leela Samson and continued pursuing the art after returning to the US. Married to Vali Chandrasekaran, Nithya has two children. Her relatives in Kerala are now eagerly looking forward to celebrating her achievement with her during her next visit.From the neighbourhoods of Kerala to the leadership of one of America's largest cities, Nithya Raman's journey is a remarkable story of roots, purpose and public service.

6 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

The First Indian Actor to Present an International Emmy? Vijay Sethupathi Is All Set!

From delivering powerful performances on screen to taking the international stage, Vijay Sethupathi is adding another milestone to his career!The acclaimed Indian actor will be among the presenters at the 54th International Emmy Awards, scheduled to take place in New York on November 23, 2026. With this, he will become the first Indian actor to present an award at the prestigious International Emmy ceremony.The announcement marks an exciting moment for Indian entertainment, bringing greater international attention to the country's growing presence in global television and cinema.Indian Talent at the International EmmysIndian personalities have been making their presence felt at international award ceremonies for years. At the 68th Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles in 2016, Priyanka Chopra presented an award alongside Hollywood actor Tom Hiddleston.According to The Times of India, producer Kavita Gupta, a board member of the International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, which organises the International Emmy Awards, has also played a role in bringing Indian talent to the event. She was instrumental in bringing comedian Vir Das on board as the host of the 2024 ceremony. Das had won the International Emmy in 2023 for his comedy special Vir Das: Landing.From Powerful Performances to Global RecognitionVijay Sethupathi has built a reputation for choosing diverse and challenging roles across Indian cinema. His recent appearance was in Baththa, set in Madras in 1986. He plays a feared gangster whose life takes an unexpected turn after an eight-year-old boy accidentally locks him inside an empty school toilet. Their unlikely interaction gradually brings out a softer side of the gangster.The actor is next expected to appear in Mani Ratnam's romantic drama Inji Vellam, opposite Sai Pallavi. Meanwhile, his 2024 Tamil thriller Maharaja is also attracting international interest. According to The Times of India, a Hollywood agency has approached the makers for its remake rights following the film's successful run in China. Producer Sudhan Sundaram revealed that the agency is attempting to develop the project with an A-list actor, with production likely to begin next year.With his upcoming appearance at the International Emmy Awards, Vijay Sethupathi is adding a new international dimension to his already remarkable career. His presence at the ceremony will also shine a spotlight on the growing recognition of Indian performers across the world.

6 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

Playing 60 Compositions in 29 Minutes! Young Santoor Talent Sets a New Record

Imagine playing 60 compositions of Indian classical music in less than half an hour! While this would be a demanding challenge for even an experienced musician, young Angshuman Sarkar from Nadia, West Bengal, has achieved this remarkable feat on the santoor.The young musician has secured a place in the India Book of Records for performing the maximum number of gats of Indian classical ragas on the santoor by a child. His record-setting performance included 60 gat compositions based on 59 different ragas, completed in just 29 minutes and 32 seconds.The achievement was officially confirmed on October 15, 2026, bringing recognition to his musical talent and dedication.60 compositions, 59 ragas and incredible precisionWhat makes Angshuman's accomplishment particularly impressive is the musical skill required to perform so many compositions within such a short time.His performance included the key sections of an instrumental composition—Alap, Sthayi, Antara and Tehai. Each has a distinct purpose. Alap introduces the mood of a raga, Sthayi and Antara form the main sections of the composition, while Tehai is a rhythmic phrase repeated three times to conclude on the beat.A gat is a fixed instrumental composition set to a rhythmic cycle. Performing 60 such compositions means moving through different ragas, musical patterns and rhythms with remarkable precision.With an average of roughly 30 seconds for each composition, Angshuman had very little room for hesitation. The performance demanded excellent memory, coordination, rhythm and familiarity with the structures of dozens of ragas.The India Book of Records recognised his exceptional musical proficiency, dedication and passion for Indian classical music.The beautiful sound of the santoorAngshuman's achievement also brings attention to the santoor, a distinctive Indian classical instrument. The instrument has a trapezoid-shaped wooden body with numerous strings stretched across bridges. Unlike instruments played by plucking or bowing, the santoor produces music when its strings are struck with two lightweight wooden mallets.Its delicate, resonant sound and intricate playing technique make it a fascinating instrument to master.Keeping India's classical music aliveIn an age where young audiences are constantly discovering new musical trends, Angshuman's achievement offers a wonderful reminder of the enduring appeal of India's classical traditions.Behind his record-breaking performance lies the discipline of regular practice, a deep understanding of music and the patience required to master a traditional instrument.At a young age, this talented musician has shown that India's rich musical heritage continues to find passionate new voices.

4 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

Bengaluru Astronomer to Lead a $20-Million Mission to Explore Cosmic Dust

When the Space Shuttle Columbia broke apart on February 1, 2003, claiming the lives of all seven astronauts on board, the world was left in shock. For a young Ramya Manjunath Anche from Devanahalli, Bengaluru, the tragedy sparked questions about space, science and the mysteries beyond Earth.More than two decades later, that curiosity has brought her to the forefront of an exciting space mission. Ramya, an astronomer and assistant research professor at the University of Arizona, is now the principal investigator of NASA's $20-million PUFFINS mission.Short for Polarimetry in the Ultraviolet to Find Features in Interstellar Dust, the mission will use a compact telescope, roughly the size of a dinner plate, to study tiny dust particles drifting between stars. Scheduled for launch in 2030, it is expected to open a new window into a largely unexplored part of our universe.From Bengaluru classrooms to the world of astrophysicsScience was a familiar subject in Ramya's home. Her father, A Manjunath, is a microbiologist who retired from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru. His work on soil research often became a topic of discussion at home, encouraging his daughter to ask questions and seek answers.Ramya studied at Oxford English School in Devanahalli and MES Vidyasagar Prof. MPL Sastry PU College in Bengaluru. She later earned a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Sir M Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology.At a time when many engineering graduates were drawn towards lucrative software jobs, Ramya chose a different path. Her interest lay in research, and her family supported her decision.In 2012, she joined the Indian Institute of Astrophysics for an integrated MTech-PhD programme in astronomical instrumentation under the guidance of Professor G C Anupama. She later pursued postdoctoral research at the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), Pune.In 2021, she moved to the University of Arizona, where she continued her work in astronomy.A tiny telescope with a big missionPUFFINS will investigate some of the smallest particles in space, roughly the size of a common cold virus. Though invisible to most telescopes, these interstellar dust grains play an important role in how starlight travels through galaxies and how stars and planets form.The mission will use ultraviolet spectropolarimetry, a specialised technique that has not been attempted from space in three decades. Its observations could help scientists better understand the nature of interstellar dust and the processes that shaped the universe.Ramya secured NASA's $20-million support for the mission under its Astrophysics Pioneers programme. She will lead a team of around 40 scientists, engineers, graduate students and researchers. Over the next four years, they will design and build the telescope before its planned 2030 launch.Breaking barriers, one discovery at a timeRamya's journey has not been without challenges. According to The Indian Express, she recalls facing stereotypes that made her question whether she was suited for physics, mathematics-heavy subjects and engineering projects. Yet, she continued to pursue research with dedication and perseverance.For Ramya, PUFFINS will also mark a personal milestone: it will be the first instrument she has helped design that will actually be built and launched into space.A question sparked by a space tragedy has now become a mission to explore the mysteries between the stars. And a young girl from Devanahalli is leading the way.

3 Nov 2026

Star Citizens

Good News

A First for Maharashtra! Three Coastal Gems Earn International Blue Flag Recognition

India Says No to Lithium Battery Waste Exports! Here's Why It Matters

The Bats Behind Sachin Tendulkar’s Greatest Innings Are Coming to a Museum!

India’s Cleanest Cities Are Revealed! Navi Mumbai Leads the Swachh Survekshan Rankings

From Classroom to the Stratosphere: Tamil Nadu Students Launch Scientific Payload 35 Km Above Earth

India's First Ceramic-Based Solar Power Storage Project to Turn Sunshine into Nighttime Electricity

From Forgotten Pages to Digital Treasures: AI to Preserve India's Ancient Manuscripts

The Birds Are Here! Assam Restricts Drone Flights Around Migratory Bird Havens

Indian Air Force's IL-76 Gajraj Makes History With World's Highest-Altitude Landing at Nyoma

DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous Pralay Missile, Marks Another Milestone for India's Defence

Positive Reads

A Film That Leaves Audiences in Tears: 'Pyre' Celebrates Love, Ageing and the Bonds That Never Fade

Beyond the Boundary, Sanju Samson Touches Hearts by Serving the Elderly

Diwali Lights Up America: Five US States and 21 Cities Host First-Ever Official Celebrations

F1 Sensation Arvid Lindblad's Special Diwali Helmet Is a Heartwarming Tribute to His Nani

Nita Ambani Lays Foundation Stone for a 100-Acre Township Built Around Care and Love

A Mother's Call That Meant Everything: Bihar Welder's Flight Home Wins Hearts

100% Hearing-Impaired Banker Treks 130 km to Everest Base Camp and Hoists PNB Flag

No Engineering Degree, He Learned Online for 13 Years to Build an Electric Flying Vehicle

First Woman to Dive Off an Iceberg: Molly Carlson’s Daring Leap Carries a Powerful Message

19-Year-Old Runs 8,000 Km to Visit 12 Jyotirlingas After Mother Recovers

The Whys and Hows

A Lamp That Keeps Burning on Its Own! How Did a Chhattisgarh Potter Make It Work?

'Mogging' Is Collins' Word of the Year 2026! Here's What the Viral Slang Really Means

There’s No Engine Pulling Vande Bharat—So How Does It Race Ahead?

When the Runway Makes Way: Why Will Thiruvananthapuram Airport Pause Flights for Five Hours Today?

How Did Tesla’s Roadster Flip in Mid-Air? The Science Behind the Stunt

Maharashtra’s Drought, A Bumper Jamun Crop: Can Trees Really Warn Us?

How is Teqball Played? The Sport That Made Its Asian Games Debut

Why Are Corals So Colourful? The Amazing Science Behind Their Bright Hues

How Can Painting One Wind Turbine Blade Black Save Birds?

‘Horn OK Please’: The Quirky Truck Phrase With a Story as Colourful as India’s Roads

Star Citizens

Six Young Researchers Earn Infosys Prize 2026 for Ideas Shaping Tomorrow!

An Equation for Excellence: Professor Neela Nataraj Earns Prestigious Global Fellowship

No Internet, No Problem! Hyderabad Teen Builds Satellite Device for Himalayan Villages

Breaking Period Taboos: Delhi Teen Aadvik Jain Wins Prestigious Diana Award

Hrithik Roshan Becomes First Indian Actor to Attend LACMA Art + Film Gala, Greets Los Angeles With a Namaste

Kavita Chand Becomes First Indian to Complete Mount Kilimanjaro Round Trip in Under 24 Hours!

From Kerala Roots to Los Angeles Mayor-Elect: Nithya Raman's Inspiring Journey

The First Indian Actor to Present an International Emmy? Vijay Sethupathi Is All Set!

Playing 60 Compositions in 29 Minutes! Young Santoor Talent Sets a New Record

Bengaluru Astronomer to Lead a $20-Million Mission to Explore Cosmic Dust

Wanderlust

As Ramayana Returns to Cinema, Kerala's Giant Jatayu Draws Attention!

Goa’s Palolem Beach Named Asia’s Best, Ranks Sixth Among the World’s Top Beaches

Gujarat Launches Stunning Glass-Roof Buses, and the Journey Looks Magical!

NMACC’s Stunning New Library Invites Mumbai to Slow Down and Turn a Page

Monsoon All Year? Gujarat’s New Rainforest With a Thrilling Glass Skywalk Makes It Possible

Delhi’s First Yamuna River Cruise Set to Offer a New View of the Capital

What Lies Inside This 3,400-Year-Old Egyptian Tomb? It’s Open Again!

Nashik Sets Guinness World Record as 517 Conch Shells Sound Together Ahead of Simhastha Kumbh Mela

Ladakh’s Snow Leopard Safari Ranks Among the World’s Best Wildlife Experiences

7 Durga Puja Pandals in Kolkata That Will Leave You Spellbound

Global News

Play More, Work Better? Logitech Gives Employees a Paid Day Off Amid GTA VI Buzz

At 29, Melat Kiros Becomes the First Gen Z Woman Elected to US Congress!

Not Your Usual Poet! Anne Carson Wins the 2026 Nobel Prize in Literature

World Space Week 2026 Celebrates a New Era of Spaceflight

Jessica Watkins Leads the Way as SpaceX Crew Reaches ISS in Record Time

A New Way to Cut Carbon Emissions: Denmark Opens Europe’s First Full-Scale CO₂ Storage Facility

He Jumped From 11,551 Metres! Russian Skydiver Sets World Record in Daring High-Altitude Feat

China Lands Its First Orbital Rocket Booster—A Giant Leap Towards Reusable Spaceflight

The Skies Are Going Electric: World’s Largest Battery-Powered Aircraft Takes Flight

She's Only 12—But She Became the World's Youngest IBM-Certified AI Engineer

Sports Spirit

R. Vaishali Stuns Chess Giants Hans Niemann and Wesley So in Budapest Blitz Tournament

Esha Singh Leads Women's Pistol Team to World Championship Gold

Shourya Ambure Creates History with India's First Track and Field Medal at Dakar Youth Olympics

A Diwali to Remember! India Welcomes Its 100th Chess Grandmaster

India Lift Sixth Asian Champions Trophy Title with Stunning 4-1 Win Over Japan

Tanvi Patri Becomes First Indian Woman to Reach Youth Olympics Badminton Final

Manipur's Rajkumari Lanchenbi Chanu Wins India's First-Ever Youth Olympics Wushu Medal!

She Once Ran Away from the Swimming Pool! Now, Dhinidhi Desinghu Is India's First Youth Olympic Swimming Medalist

At 20, Kimi Antonelli Makes F1 History as Youngest-Ever World Champion

Another Big Win for India as PV Sindhu Clinches Hylo Open Title in Germany