The Beginning of an Exciting Journey
When I joined the SPARK project in 2022 as part of WorldServe Education, I knew I was stepping into something special. Working on India's first virtual space museum for ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) was an opportunity that aligned perfectly with my technical background and my passion for educational technologies.
My journey with WorldServe had already equipped me with valuable experience developing interactive museum applications. I had designed and developed responsive websites for interactive museum kiosks, including file explorer applications, timeline templates, and multiplayer quiz systems. I had also modified features in 3D web applications, which proved invaluable for the SPARK project.
What Makes SPARK Special
SPARK (Space Tech Park) was conceived as a groundbreaking virtual platform where visitors could explore India's achievements in space science through an immersive digital experience. The project was launched on August 10, 2022, as part of ISRO's Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations commemorating India's 75th year of independence.
What I find most remarkable about SPARK is how it brings space science to anyone with an internet connection. The virtual museum allows users to navigate through different locations, interact with exhibits, and learn about ISRO's missions, satellites, and launch vehicles - all from the comfort of their homes.
Contribution to the Project
For SPARK, I built key components of the base framework and developed interactive elements that enhance the visitor experience. My previous work on museum applications at WorldServe provided valuable experience for this project.
I worked closely with Sudhir and Varsha, whose guidance was crucial to the project's success. Sudhir's vision and Varsha's attention to detail helped shape my work throughout the development process.
Some of the specific aspects I worked on included:
- Implementing navigation systems within the virtual environment
- Developing interactive exhibit components
- Ensuring compatibility across different platforms
- Creating responsive design elements for various devices
- Collaborating on integration with ISRO's content management systems
The Recognition That Followed
The launch of SPARK received significant recognition, which made all our hard work worthwhile. On August 10, 2022, the virtual museum was inaugurated by Shri. Somanath S, Chairman of ISRO and Secretary of the Department of Space, in the presence of directors and scientists from various ISRO departments.
As Sudhir Rao Rupanagudi, Managing Director at WorldServe, mentioned in his LinkedIn post:
"What more can we ask for, than to be lauded by the Chairman, ISRO/Secretary, DOS - Shri. Somanath S Sir along with all other respected Directors/Scientists of various departments of the ISRO for the design and deployment of ISRO's first Virtual space tech park - SPARK!"
His acknowledgment of my contribution was particularly meaningful:🔗
"Bharath Revana - without whom critical components of the website would not have fallen into place! Thanks for being part of this!"
The project was also featured in media coverage, including an NDTV, India Times that highlighted how SPARK represented an innovative approach to showcasing ISRO's achievements in an interactive manner.
Beyond SPARK: The Human Space Flight Expo
My involvement with ISRO projects extended beyond SPARK. I had the opportunity to assist with exhibits at the Human Space Flight Expo held at the Nehru Planetarium in Bengaluru. Working behind the scenes on these exhibits was another rewarding experience, as they were presented to ISRO Chairman Shri. Somanath S and Shri. Umamaheswaran, Director of the Human Space Flight Centre.
As the M.Director noted in his post about the event.
The Impact of SPARK
Since its launch, SPARK has had a significant impact on public engagement with India's space program. The virtual museum has successfully brought space science education to a much wider audience, serving as a digital gateway to ISRO's achievements.
The project has contributed to several important objectives:
- Making space science more accessible to students and enthusiasts across India
- Preserving ISRO's rich history and achievements in a digital format
- Inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers
- Supporting ISRO's mission to bring space education to the masses
Being part of a team that worked toward these goals was a professionally rewarding experience.
Explore SPARK Yourself
I invite everyone to experience this virtual space museum firsthand. SPARK is accessible through ISRO's website or directly at: https://apps.isro.gov.in/spacepark/
When you visit, you'll discover:
- A virtual recreation of Sriharikota, the heart of India's space launches
- A monumental sundial representing humanity's connection to astronomy
- The Space on Wheels exhibit showcasing ISRO's mobile education initiative
- The Legacy Garden illustrating ISRO's humble beginnings
- The main museum with its launch vehicle and satellite galleries
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Working on SPARK in 2022 was one of the most rewarding experiences of my professional career. The project challenged me to apply my technical skills in new ways and collaborate with an amazing team dedicated to making space science accessible to everyone.
This experience has reinforced my passion for developing innovative technical solutions that bridge education and technology. I'm proud to have contributed to a project that stands as a testament to India's achievements in space exploration and serves as an educational resource for generations to come.
As I continue my journey in technology development, I carry with me the valuable lessons and experiences gained from working on ISRO's first virtual space museum.
References
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Indian Space Research Organisation. (2022). Launching of ISRO's Virtual Space Museum "SPARK". ISRO Official Website
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Rupanagudi, S. R. (2022, August 11). WorldServe develops ISRO's First Virtual Space Museum - SPARK. WorldServe
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