Rationale: Role of Optics and Optical Instrumentation across the wavelength domains in Observational Sciences

Optics, optical systems, and optics-based instrumentation form the very foundation of observational astronomy (including solar astronomy), spanning the entire electromagnetic spectrum—from radio to gamma rays. The role of optics in this domain cannot be overemphasised. It continues to revolutionise modern astrophysical research through technological advancements that enhance telescopic capabilities, imaging performance, and multiplexing observation strategies. From traditional visible-light telescopes to complex spectrographs and adaptive optics systems, optics has enabled deeper, sharper, and more comprehensive observations of the cosmos. While the astronomy and solar physics community in India stays abreast of the latest advancements in astronomical instrumentation through platforms like the ASI annual meetings and specialized pre-ASI workshops, parallel developments in allied disciplines—such as Space and Atmospheric Sciences, Planetary Science, Quantum Sciences, etc—often remain underrepresented in mainstream astronomical discourse. Yet, these fields increasingly rely on optics-based techniques that mirror or complement those used in astronomy. All the aforementioned scientific domains—and many others—successfully employ various aspects of optics and related instrumentation within their own fields. However, the impact of these advancements often remains confined to their respective disciplines and is not widely known beyond those domains. Interdisciplinary instrumentation research is essential for scientific and technological advancement. As integrating knowledge from diverse fields is not only beneficial for all concerned, but also, crucial to driving national scientific progress. 

This symposium aims to bring together researchers, engineers, academicians, and professionals from these varied domains to foster collaboration, exchange ideas, share innovations, and address the technical challenges—centred around the broad theme of optics across the entire electromagnetic spectrum.

Physical Research Laboratory, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India