Promoting and encouraging interest in astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology throughout Bangladesh.
Copernicus Astronomical Memorial of SUST (CAM-SUST) is an Astronomy Research & Outreach organization at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh. Promoting and encouraging interest in astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology throughout the country is what CAM-SUST is all about.
Nicolaus Copernicus (19 February 1473 – 24 May 1543) was a Renaissance astronomer and the first person to formulate a comprehensive heliocentric model which displaced the Earth from the center of the universe. His work is considered as the starting point of modern astronomy.
Copernicus could not prove his theories, but he showed that celestial motions could be explained more simply by Earth's movement. He paved the way for Galileo and Kepler to later prove his ideas.
In spite of the great and remarkable contributions in modern time, Copernicus does not seem to be reputed to his true value. So, our organization is a little tribute to this great scholar without whom the astronomy as we know today might never have existed.
It was early 2012, and there was no way to study astronomy academically in Bangladesh. A few motivated students from Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, who loved discussing astronomy and wanted to promote it among all, came together. They formed the Copernicus Astronomical Memorial of SUST (CAM-SUST) on July 7, 2012. It is a university-based student organization of SUST. On July 17, 2012, CAM-SUST was officially registered by the University Authority.
A procession of CAM-SUST from our early days. Photo taken- July, 2013.
Pursuing the Infinity
This is about acquiring knowledge from countless unknowns and sharing that knowledge with everyone.
To introduce the subject of astronomy to the general public and create their interest in it. Above all, to create a platform dedicated to astronomy.
— Article 1.2.7 of the CAM-SUST Constitution
Everything we do is guided by our goal of promoting astronomy. CAM-SUST was established as an astronomy knowledge-sharing organization. In the early stages, our activities primarily focused on learning astronomy among our members through study circles and other activities. Then we started doing outreach programs throughout the university and in other educational institutions to inspire and spread astronomy. Today, most of our activities are centered around 4 main areas.
This area is the foundation of CAM-SUST. The whole CAM 's why we organize a range of activities to promote learning and intellectual growth in astronomy.
We study astronomy by self-learning and collective knowledge. We discuss various astronomical topics through Study Circle and Journal Talk. To complement this, we host CAM-Talk, Seminars, Workshops, and Summer/Winter School featuring professors, researchers, and scholars. They provide expert knowledge and insights bridging the gap between self-learning and professional knowledge.
We love to spread astronomy. That's why we focus on this area a lot to engage students beyond university and the general public.
Our flagship program, Cosmania, brings astronomy to schools and colleges across Bangladesh through various interesting segments and competitions. To reach an even wider audience, we host the annual SUST Astro Carnival, a nationwide celebration. Another core part of our outreach is Stargazing and World Space Week celebrations. By these, we try to spark curiosity and build awareness among the general mass.
We want to contribute to the scientific community. That's why we encourage our members to go beyond curiosity.
Each year, we launch some research-based projects. We approach experienced mentors and make some teams from our members. The mentor guides students through the project. Also we run a Journal Club, where members select and discuss published research papers, critically analyzing methodologies, results, and implications. Through these activities, CAM-SUST is cultivating a culture for future research.
We want to solve real-world problems using astronomy and technology and make learning more enjoyable for all. That's why we work on creative projects.
We have our custom-designed water rockets and launchers for outreach events. We also design educational materials and tools and make them accessible to all. In addition, we experiment with EdTech solutions to create innovative learning experiences.
Whether you're a student, astronomy enthusiast, or someone fascinated by the cosmos, there's a place for you in the CAM-SUST family. Together, we explore the infinite wonders of the universe.
