UoH establishes Mini Observatory in honor of School of Physics alumna Dr. Nandivada Ratnashree

Dr. Nandivada Ratnashree Mini Observatory Inauguration
A Mini Observatory named after Dr. Nandivada Ratnashree, an alumna of the School of Physics in 1986, has been established on the terrace of the new School of Physics building at the University of Hyderabad (UoH). The observatory was inaugurated by Prof. B. J. Rao, the Vice Chancellor of UoH, on Thursday.
The Legacy of Dr. Nandivada Ratnashree: A Tribute through Astronomy
This observatory stands as a tribute to Dr. Nandivada Ratnashree’s legacy. A distinguished alumna, she served as the Director of the Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium in New Delhi until 2021 when she tragically succumbed to Covid-related complications.
Equipped with a Mead LX 200 telescope and accompanying accessories, the observatory provides a platform for celestial exploration. The Zenith Astronomy Club, led by dedicated research scholars, will oversee regular sky viewing sessions, fostering a passion for astronomy among students.
Dr. Ratnashree’s impact extended far beyond her directorship. She played a pivotal role in igniting enthusiasm for astronomy among thousands of young minds and spearheaded the restoration of the Jantar Mantar observatories in Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, and Varanasi.
Mini Observatory in memory of Dr. Nandivada Ratnashree, alumna of School of Physics -1986 inaugurated by @basuthkar_j Vice Chancellor of @HydUniv
Dr. Nandivada Ratnashree served as Director, Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium in New Delhi till 2021.https://t.co/N5pdkRcom8 pic.twitter.com/LpSDCjNwMH
— Univ of Hyderabad (@HydUniv) April 4, 2024