Kalam launches space science museum

KOCHI: Former President A P J Abdul Kalam opened the space science museum here by unveiling a massive model of PSLV launch vehicle on Saturday. The name of the museum, ‘Science Park’ was declared by Oscar winner Resul Pookutty. Kochi will act as a catalyst to ignite the spirit of inquiry among students, Kalam said. The museum will be expanded in the coming months with the help of government and non-government agencies. It will be a four-storey building housing the latest technological equipment including, a series of telescopes and models of rockets. The ground floor will be dedicated to the works of great scientists of both ancient and modern India, Kalam said.  The former President said he was especially delighted to hear about the museum website. The website offers a virtual tour of the museum, details on the various interactions conducted at the museum and inputs on the facilities and equipment.   Responding to a student’s query on Koodunkulam nuclear power plant, Kalam said that the electric power played an important role in the development of the country and India had to meet its energy requirements through solar, wind, biofuel and nuclear sources.  Union Minister of State for Food and Consumer Affairs K V Thomas, Excise Minister K Babu, ISRO former chairman G Madhavan Nair and Princess Aswathy Thirunal Gowri Lakshmi Bhai  spoke.