.

SYNOPSIS
Science & Technology Park – ISRO
Title : Space
Kanyakumari
Introduction
India’s advancements in space science have created a strong need for public platforms
that translate complex scientific achievements into accessible learning experiences. The
proposed Space Science and Technology Park (SSTP) at Kovalam Beach, Kanyakumari
aims to serve as an interactive science education campus linked to ISRO’s outreach
initiatives. Through science galleries, planetarium facilities, outdoor exhibits, and hands-on
learning spaces, the project promotes scientific curiosity while responding to the coastal
climate through sustainable, climate-responsive architectural design.

Located at the southernmost tip of India, the project benefits from Kanyakumari’s strong
tourism potential, coastal climate, and proximity to ISRO facilities, making it an ideal site for
a high-impact science education centre.

Aim of the Project

To design and develop a public science education campus that showcases India’s space
achievements, promotes scientific curiosity among students, and supports experiential
learning through astronomy, rocket technology, and interactive space-science exhibits.

Objectives
1. To create a space science park with indoor and outdoor exhibits related to ISRO
missions and astrophysics.
2. To develop an interactive science centre with galleries on rocketry, satellites,
climate science, and space exploration.
3. To incorporate planetarium-based astronomy education for students and tourists.
4. To accommodate workshops, STEM labs, and hands-on learning areas for school
and college students.
5. To integrate climate-responsive architecture suitable for Kanyakumari’s coastal
environment.
6. To create a tourism-supported public attraction adding educational and economic
value to the region.

Scope of the Study

 Detailed architectural study of science centres, space observatories, and ISRO
outreach models.
 Understanding the functional needs of exhibition halls, simulation spaces,
planetariums, laboratories, and outdoor science parks.
  Analysis of coastal climatic conditions for passive, energy-efficient design
strategies.
 Preparation of design proposals aligned with ISRO outreach goals and public
science engagement.
 Case-study-based benchmarking with similar science centres in India and abroad.

Site Context – Kanyakumari (ISRO SSTP Site)

(Updated as per Manorama Online report)

 Site Location:
Kovalam Beach, Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
Coordinates: 8°04'49.3"N, 77°32'05.2"E
 Land Area:
Approximately 10 acres allotted by the Government of Tamil Nadu for ISRO’s
Space Science & Technology Park.
 Climate:
Tropical coastal climate with high humidity (70–85%), strong sea winds, saline air
exposure, and high solar radiation.
 Accessibility:
Well connected via NH-44, close to Kanyakumari town and tourist hubs, with easy
access for school groups, researchers, and visitors.
 Surroundings:
Coastal landscape with proximity to ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC),
Mahendragiri, making the site ideal for space science outreach and education.
 Topography:
Gently sloping coastal terrain with open horizons, suitable for outdoor science
gardens, telescope installations, and open-air exhibits.

Source:
Manorama Online – “Kanyakumari Space Park Launch” (23 June 2025)
Space Science & Technology Park (SSTP), Kanyakumari
– Tender-Based Details
 Implementing Agency: ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC)
 Tender Value: ₹39.16 crore
 Land Area: 10 acres
 Project Components:
o Science museum building
o Space science exhibition galleries
o Rocketry and propulsion exhibits
o Satellite models and launch simulation zones
o Outdoor space science park
o Proposed 2 MW solar power plant
o Utility buildings and electrical substation
 Project Status:
Tenders floated during 2024–2025; project currently in early implementation phase.

Key Learnings for Design

 Exhibition spaces should be modular and future-expandable.
 Visitor circulation must be clear and loop-based, suitable for school and group visits.
 Strong emphasis on technical utilities due to digital simulations and interactive
systems.
 Structural planning must allow for large-span column-free galleries.
 Outdoor zones must adopt wind-resistant and corrosion-resistant design strategies
due to the coastal environment.

Special Study
The special study focuses on creating realistic space experiences on Earth. It includes:

 Zero-gravity simulation – using body-weight reduction systems and harnesses to

replicate low gravity.

 Planetary surface simulation – designing Moon and Mars-like terrains for walking
and exploration.

 VR/AR space experiences – immersive virtual spacewalks, spacecraft interiors, and

celestial observations.

This study helps translate space science and astronaut training into interactive
architectural design, making it educational, experiential, and engaging for thesis

Area of Focus
The project focuses on designing an immersive and educational space centre that allows
visitors to experience astronaut training, celestial landscapes, and space phenomena. Key
focus areas include:

 Interactive Learning Zones: Moon and Mars surface simulations, VR/AR spacewalks,
and telescope observation.

 Astronaut Training Experiences: Zero-gravity simulation, fitness & balance training,

space suit usage, and space food culture.

 Technology Integration: VR, AR, motion simulators, robotics, and hydroponic space
farming labs.

 Public and Restricted Zones: Safe circulation and functional planning for students,
researchers, and general visitors.

 Design and Architecture: Creating a celestial-inspired landscape and building form

that blends functionality, aesthetics, and immersive experience.

Expected Outcomes
 Increased public understanding of Indian space achievements.
 Strong educational impact in South Tamil Nadu.
 Enhanced science tourism in Kanyakumari.
 A climate-responsive, sustainable science education campus.
 A model for future ISRO educational outreach centers.

Building Requirements (Functional Programme)

1. Plot Coverage Check
 Maximum allowable ground coverage (40%)
= 0.40 × 40,468.56
= 16,187.42 m²

This is the maximum building footprint allowed on ground.

2. Proposed Built-Up Area Check

Your proposal:

 Total Built-up Area (BUA): 5,500 – 7,000 m²

This is WELL WITHIN limits

Even if:

 G + 1 configuration is used
 Ground footprint ≈ 3,000–4,000 m²
Only ~10% site coverage is used, far below the allowed 40%

3. Corrected & Optimised Area Statement

A. INDOOR REQUIREMENTS (BUA)

Zone Area Range (m²) Remarks

Entrance & Orientation Hall 350 – 500 Ticketing, info, crowd buffer

Space Science Gallery 1,200 – 1,600 Sun, planets, ISRO missions

Rocket & Satellite Display Hall 800 – 1,200 Large span, tall volume

Simulation Zones 600 – 800 VR, zero-gravity, launch sims

Planetarium / Digital Dome 600 – 1,000 150–250 seats (standard)

STEM & Innovation Labs 500 – 700 Robotics, coding

Mini-Theatre / Auditorium 300 – 450 Lectures, shows

Workshops & Training Rooms 300 – 400 Student activities

Administration & Services 300 – 500 Offices, control rooms

Total Built-Up Area ≈ 5,500 – 7,000 m²

4. OUTDOOR REQUIREMENTS (NON-BUA)

B. Outdoor Science & Landscape Zones

Component Area (m²) Notes

Open Science Park 12,000 – 15,000 Gravity, orbit paths

Rocket Park 3,000 – 4,000 Outdoor rocket segments

Landscape & Greens 8,000 – 10,000 Seating, shading

Circulation (paths, plazas) 4,000 – 5,000 Pedestrian loops

Wind-barrier plantations Integrated Coastal requirement

Total Outdoor Area ≈ 27,000 – 30,000 m²

5. Site Area Utilisation Summary

 Component Area (m²)

Total Site Area 40,468.56

Built-up Area 5,500 – 7,000

Open / Outdoor Areas ~30,000

Balance (services, setbacks) ~3,000

Overall Project Requirements (IPRC – SSTP,

Kanyakumari)
 Site area: 10 acres ≈ 40,000 m²
 Desired ground coverage: 30–35% (≈ 12,000–14,000 m²)
 FSI / FAR (academic proposal): 0.15–0.20
 Total built-up area (proposed): ≈ 6,000–7,000 m²

Proposed Area Statement

A. PUBLIC / EXHIBITION ZONE

Space No. Area / unit (m²) Sub-total (m²)

Entrance lobby & info desk 1 250 250
Ticketing + cloak room 1 80 80
Space Science Main Gallery 1 1,200 1,200
ISRO Missions Gallery (rockets + satellites) 1 800 800
Interactive / Hands-on Gallery 1 600 600
Special temporary exhibition hall 1 400 400
Circulation, internal corridors (≈30% of above) – – 1,000

Sub-total – Public / Exhibition: ≈ 3,330 m²

B. EDUCATIONAL & ASTRONOMY ZONE

Space No. Area / unit (m²) Sub-total (m²)

Planetarium (150–200 seats) 1 500–600 550
4D / Simulation theatre 1 250 250
Workshop rooms (school groups) 2 80 160
STEM / Innovation lab 2 100 200
Library / resource centre 1 120 120
Student briefing hall / seminar room 1 150 150
Internal circulation (25–30%) – – 350
Sub-total – Educational: ≈ 1,780 m²

C. ADMINISTRATIVE & STAFF ZONE

Space No. Area / unit (m²) Sub-total (m²)

Director’s office 1 25 25
Admin offices (accounts, HR, etc.) 4–6 15 90
Meeting / conference room 1 40 40
Staff workstations (open office) 1 80 80
Staff pantry & dining 1 60 60
Staff toilets & lockers – 60 60
Circulation & storage – – 75

Sub-total – Admin: ≈ 430 m²

D. PUBLIC AMENITIES & SUPPORT

Space No. Area / unit (m²) Sub-total (m²)

Cafeteria (100–120 seats) 1 250 250
Kitchen + store 1 120 120
Souvenir / gift shop 1 80 80
First-aid / medical room 1 30 30
Public toilets (M/F/Divyang) – 120 120
Security, control & server room 1 60 60
Electrical / LV rooms – 120 120
Circulation, service corridors – – 150

Sub-total – Amenities / Service: ≈ 930 m²

E. TOTAL BUILT-UP AREA (INDOOR)

 Public / Exhibition: ≈ 3,330 m²

 Educational / Planetarium: ≈ 1,780 m²
 Admin: ≈ 430 m²
 Amenities / services: ≈ 930 m²

TOTAL indoor built-up (rounded): ~ 6,500 m²

You can now compare this with your printed area-statement sheet and:

 directly replace my numbers with exact ones, or

 keep my numbers as your own academic programme if the DPR values are not clearly
legible.

3. Outdoor Requirements
 Outdoor Space Science Park (interactive exhibits, orbital models): 10,000–12,000 m²
 Rocket Park / outdoor display: 2,000–3,000 m²
  Landscaping, seating, pathways: 8,000–10,000 m²
 Surface parking (buses + cars): 4,000–5,000 m²
 Service yards (HVAC units, garbage, loading): 2,000 m² approx.

PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT CONTROLS

Minimum access road width

 For large public / institutional buildings: ≥ 12 m approach road recommended for fire
tender access and two-way traffic

Setbacks (typical, confirm with local DCR / LPA):

 Front: ≥ 6 m
 Side & rear: 3–6 m (more for taller than 15 m)
These match the “front / side / rear setback” table you showed for institutional
buildings.

Ground coverage & FAR (FSI):

 For institutional / cultural buildings, typical FSI allowed is 1.5–2.0 with 30–35%
ground coverage (varies by local bye-laws; quote actual value from Kanyakumari
DCR).

2. FIRE & LIFE–SAFETY STANDARDS

Travel distance to exit

 Assembly / institutional buildings:

o Without sprinkler: max 22.5 m
o With sprinkler system: max 30 m

Exit width & number

 Exit door width: ≥ 1.0 m

 Stair width:
o NBC minimum for assembly: 1.5 m – you can safely adopt 2.0 m (as in your
note) because of heavy student crowds.
 No. of exits: at least 2 independent staircases for each occupied floor of assembly
use.

Exit spacing

 Horizontal distance between exits so that fire/smoke cannot block both; your notes
say “EXITS – every 30 m” which is consistent with NBC travel-distance limits.

3. BARRIER-FREE DESIGN
Ramps

 Gradient (slope): 1:12 max (1:15 better if space allows).

 Clear width: ≥ 1.2 m.
 Maximum ramp length without landing: 9.0 m.
 Landing at top and bottom: 1.5 m × 1.5 m minimum.
 Handrails both sides at 700–900 mm height.

Doors & corridors

 Main entrance door clear width: ≥ 1 000 mm.

 Internal doors (toilets, labs): ≥ 900 mm.
 Corridors carrying public flow: ≥ 1.8–2.4 m, wider at junctions.

Differently-abled toilets

 Clear space inside: 1.5 m × 1.75 m (your image shows same).

 Door opening outward or sliding, with 900-mm clear width and grab rails.

1. SANITATION REQUIREMENTS
Water closets (W.C.)

 Male: 1 W.C. per 200 persons up to 400; then +1 per 250 persons.
 Female: 1 W.C. per 100 persons up to 200; then +1 per 150 persons.

Urinals (Male)

 1 urinal per 50 persons or part thereof.

Wash basins

 1 per 200 persons (men and women each).

Drinking water fountains

 1 per 100 persons (min. 1 per floor).

Cleaner’s sink

 1 per floor minimum

2. AUDITORIUM / PLANETARIUM DESIGN

STANDARDS
Sightlines & geometry
  Ideal horizontal viewing angle from seat to
screen centre: 30–35° max.
 First row distance from screen: 1.2–1.5 × screen
height.
 Last row distance: up to 6 × screen height
(beyond this, viewing comfort drops).
 Floor rake (slope): 1:8 to 1:12 for stepped
seating.

Seating

 Seat width: 500–550 mm.

 Row spacing (seat back to seat back): 900–1 100
mm (more for premium comfort).
 Aisle width: ≥ 1.2 m, with cross aisles for long
rows (>20 seats).

Stage (if any)

 Depth: at least 6–8 m for lectures / demonstrations.

 Clear height over stage: ≥ 7 m for lighting grids etc.
Live case study

Visvesvaraya Industrial &

Technological Museum
(VITM)
Location:

Cubbon Park, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Established:

1962

Administered by:

National Council of Science Museums (NCSM), Ministry of Culture, Government of India

The Visvesvaraya Industrial & Technological Museum is one of

India’s earliest and most influential science museums. It was
established to promote industrial, technological, and scientific
awareness among the public, especially students. It serves as a
national benchmark for interactive science museums

28 November 2017 — Space Technology Gallery Reopening

15 February 2021 — Biotechnology Gallery Renovation

19 April 2019 — Science for Kids Gallery (new addition)

2025 (circa) — Fun Science Gallery Rebrand / Revamp

Major Zones

1. Exhibition Galleries
2. Auditorium / Science Demonstration Hall
3. Visitor Services (lobby, ticketing, store)

Circulation

 Central lobby with radial movement

 Loop circulation through galleries

Single hall size is approx. 8 X 25

Toilet 6 uriner, 3 basion, 3 WC

  Electrotechnics Gallery: This gallery is devoted to mechanical energy and power
and there are several touch tables to learn the basics of electric and magnetic fields.
 Space Gallery: This gallery displays models of rockets and satellites, as well as a
detailed model of a still space station with people being overwhelmed by it.
 Fun Science: An arrangement of installations that has benefited society as it provides
individuals an opportunity to have fun while at the same time being educated about
various aspects of science.
 Biotechnology Gallery: New additions include a section highlighting the
advancements made in the different branches of biotechnology and areas of focus.

Ground floor
 Auditorium
 3d sphere science show
 Administration office
 Exhibition galary

 Engine Hall: As stated, this hall

is for mechanical engineering
students, and two engines—the
jet engine and the steam one—are
displayed for the learners.
First floor
 Electro techine
Fun science

secound floor
 Biotrchnology
 Space technology
 Biotechnology Gallery: New
additions include a section
highlighting the advancements
made in the different branches
of biotechnology and areas of
focus.
3rd floor
 BEL Hall of
electronics
 Science for kids
Strengths

 Proven educational effectiveness

 Excellent gallery zoning and
circulation
 Adaptable exhibition spaces
 Strong public outreach

Limitations

 Limited integration of landscape as

exhibit
 Minimal climate-change or geology-
specific galleries
 Building itself is not expressive of
science themes

Conclusion

 The case studies highlight that effective

science museums emerge from strong
site response, and clear functional
zoning. These insights guide the
proposed project towards an
experiential, sustainable, and educational
science facility suited to the South
Indian context.
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium
(JNP), Bengaluru – Short Case
Study
Location: High Grounds, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Established: 1989 | Managed by: Bengaluru City
Corporation (BBMP)

Overview:
Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium is a major public
astronomy and science-education facility featuring a
domed sky theatre, science galleries, and an outdoor science park. It focuses on
astronomy, space science, and experiential learning for students and the general public.

Design Concept – Hexagonal Dome Inspired by

Aryabhata Satellite

The hexagonal dome form is inspired by Aryabhata,

India’s first satellite, whose geometric modular structure
symbolized scientific precision, innovation, and India’s entry
into space research. The repeated hexagonal geometry
represents structural efficiency, modular growth, and
cosmic order, making it an appropriate architectural expression for a planetarium and
science facility.

Architecturally, the hexagonal dome allows for uniform load

distribution and it sutable for planetarium set up

Architectural & Planning Notes:

 Central planetarium dome as the focal mass.

 Clear zoning: entry lobby → dome theatre → galleries →
outdoor science park.
 Landscaped surroundings support passive cooling and
visitor comfort in Bengaluru’s moderate climate.

A strong precedent for planetarium-based public education,

visitor circulation, and integration of indoor shows with outdoor
learning spaces—useful for science centre or museum proposals
in South India.

Parking => 10 – buses, 50 – cars

Observatory and Dome
Dome screen materil - Aluminium prephorated sheet

Height of the Sky Theatre from ground level - 15.125

mtrs

Height of the Telescopic room from ground level - 14.90

mtrs

Diameter of Over head tank - 6.40 mtrs

AC plant capacity - 40 Tonnes(Centralised System)

Telescope - 6 inch Carlzeiss Coude's

Planetarium
Projector - Carlzeiss ZKP4 Star
Master Opt-mechanical Projector and
VELVET digital Projector
Case Study: B. M. Birla Planetarium, Chennai
Location

Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu (within the Periyar Science & Technology Centre
campus)

Established

Managing Authority

Tamil Nadu Science and Technology Centre (TNSTC), Government of Tamil Nadu

Background and Significance

The B. M. Birla Planetarium, Chennai, is one of India’s most prominent planetariums and a
major centre for astronomy education and public science outreach in South India. It was
established to promote scientific temper, especially in space science, astronomy, and
planetary studies, and continues to attract large numbers of students and tourists every year.

Site Context
 Located on a 22-acre science campus along with the Periyar Science & Technology
Centre.
 Surrounded by educational institutions and green buffers.
Major Zones

1. Entrance Lobby & Orientation Space

2. Sky Theatre (Planetarium Dome)
3. Exhibition Galleries (space science,
astronomy, environment, energy)
4. Auditorium / Seminar Spaces
5. Service & Administration Areas

Sky Theatre (Planetarium

Dome)
 Seating capacity: approx. 236 seats
 Projection system: Hybrid optical–
digital system
 Dome diameter: approx. 17–18 m
 Used for astronomy shows, night-sky
simulation, planetary motion, and
cosmology programs

[Link] exhibits – Birla

Planetarium and Science Centre have
numerous halls with different scientific
exhibits on display. Fun mirrors,
mathematical demos and astronomical
phenomena are among the popular
ones here. You'll also find galleries
dedicated to ocean life, defence
research and nuclear power. A hall of
fame, with portraits and statues of
various astronauts and scientists, is
also present at Birla Planetarium in Chennai.

2. Watching 3D shows – Visual sky shows are conducted at

different times in English and Tamil. The programs include space
phenomena such as meteor showers, stellar cycles, sky and
seasons, and more. Overall, 35 such audio-visual programs
explaining the cosmic phenomena are shown in the planetarium.
The theme of shows is usually changed every 3 months.

3. Observing the night sky – A special show on night sky

observation is also conducted here usually on Saturday evenings.
Visit Birla Planetarium Chennai on a night with clear skies and
you'll be engrossed in stargazing.
4. Roaming in the park – The place also has a
Science Park for kids, with outdoor exhibitions
categorised into different branches of science. It
has toy cars running with automatic electronic
signal systems. The system of solar energy, wind
energy and biogas energy are displayed. And a
small forest set up with different varieties of flora
and fauna are also here.

5. Checking Science on a Sphere – Science on a

Sphere program projects high-resolution videos on
a suspended globe, representing our Earth. You
can learn about Earth’s atmosphere, oceans and
land with the help of digital images. The experience
is interactive as well as educational.
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (KSO)
Location: Kodaikanal, Dindigul District, Tamil Nadu
Established: 1899
Institution: Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Government of India
Altitude: ~2,343 m above mean sea level
Climate: Cool–temperate hill climate
Type: Solar Astronomy & Climate Research Observatory

Background and Significance

The Kodaikanal Solar Observatory is one of the oldest solar observatories in the world
and the oldest in India. It was established during the British period to study solar physics,
sunspots, and atmospheric conditions.

For over 125 years, the observatory has continuously recorded data on:

 Sunspot activity
 Solar radiation
 Solar magnetic fields
 Atmospheric effects of solar variation

This long-term dataset is globally significant for understanding climate change, monsoon
patterns, and Earth–Sun relationships.
Why Kodaikanal Was Chosen (Site
Context)

The site selection itself is a perfect

example of scientific site planning:

Key Reasons

 High altitude → reduced

atmospheric disturbance
 Clear skies & low dust levels
→ accurate solar observation
 Stable temperature → reduced
thermal distortion in
instruments
 Remote hill setting → minimal
light and air
Campus Planning and Zoning
The observatory campus is spread across a large, green hilltop site and includes:

Functional Zones

1. Observation Zone
o Telescope domes
o Spectrograph towers
o Solar imaging
instruments
2. Research & Data Zone
o Laboratories
o Data archives (historic
photographic plates)
o Analysis rooms
3. Administrative &
Residential Zone
o Scientist offices
o Heritage bungalows
o Support buildings
4. Public & Outreach Zone
o Solar Observatory Museum (opened 2018)
o Visitor interpretation centre
o Guided educational tours

Major Instruments

 Solar Tower Telescope

 White-light and H-alpha telescopes
 Spectroheliographs
 Digitised solar image archive (dating back to 1904)

Research Focus

 Solar cycles and sunspots

 Solar influence on Earth’s climate
 Space weather and geomagnetic storms
 Long-term climate pattern correlations

Museum Features

 Historic telescopes and instruments

 Digital displays on solar physics
 Interactive panels explaining climate–solar relationships
 Archival solar images (100+ years old)
NET CASE STUDY – Regional Science
Centre, Rajkot

Parameter Detail
Architect / Firm INI Design Studio, Ahmedabad

Client Gujarat Council on Science & Technology (GUJCOST)

Site Area 10 acr I
Built-up Area (Gross) 85,000 ft² (~7,900 m²)

Completion June 2022

Program Type Science Museum / Interactive Science Centre / Edutainment facility
Key Consultants Exhibit Design: Lemon Design; Structure: DUCON Consultants; MEPF &
Interiors: INI Design Studio & INI Infrastructure & Engineering; Construction:
Cube Construction Engineering Ltd.

Awards MUSE Design Awards – 2024 (Gold), JK AYA 2023, iDAC Infinity Award Finalist
2024, multiple design awards for INI Studio.

Design Concept & Architectural Idea

� Conceptual Inspiration

 `The form is inspired by local cultural tapestry — the spatial logic draws analogies
with a traditional religious fair set on an elevated mound / picnic ground visited
by families.
 Philosophically, the building’s
geometry encodes dual
metaphors:
o “Shunya” (the void /
potential) — the central
space/courtyard symbolizes
pure potential from which
creation emerges
o “Anant” (the infinite) —
the radial wedges rising
and expanding outward
represent boundless
possibilities and scientific
progress.
 The resultant form is a circular footprint with radial walls, creating a dial-like,
pyramid-esque geometry — alternating built and open wedges, unifying built-form
and open-air exhibits.
NET CASE STUDY - Udaipur Solar
Observatory (USO)
 Location: On a small island inside Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India.
 Established: 1975–76 — founded by Arvind Bhatnagar under the Vedshala Trust;
later (since 1981) managed by Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), under the
Department of Space.
 Purpose: High-resolution solar physics research — studying solar activity, sunspots,
solar oscillations, magnetic phenomena, solar flares / coronal mass ejections (CMEs),
and contributing to space-weather and heliophysics research
 USO helps fill a global longitudinal observing gap — enabling continuous solar
observation when combined with international solar-observing networks.

🔭 Instruments & Scientific Capabilities

USO is not just a single telescope, but a well-equipped solar observatory with several
instruments, among which the most important are:

 Multi Application Solar Telescope (MAST)

 Full-disk / H-alpha telescopes
 Spectro-polarimetric and imaging spectrograph facilitiesScientific Research
Areas include

Why the Location — Lake & Island Setting (Site Strategy)

The choice of placing USO on an island within a lake has strong scientific and
environmental reasoning — relevant as a design precedent for museum/observatory
architecture:

 The large water body reduces ground heating by the sun; hence minimises air
turbulence near the surface. This yields more stable “seeing” conditions (less
atmospheric distortion), resulting in sharper solar images with high spatial
resolution.
 Rajasthan — especially Udaipur — enjoys many cloudless days a year, allowing
frequent and reliable solar observations.
 The setting is scenic and isolated — ideal for a research facility, but also offers
potential for visitor-oriented viewing / outreach, provided proper access design
(boats, docks) and security/control protocols.

Thus the site-selection strategy merges scientific performance (seeing conditions) +

environmental/climatic suitability + potential for public science outreach.

NET CASE STUDY – MUSEUM OF THE

FUTURE, DUBAI (Futuristic Architecture)

Basic Information
 Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
 Opened: 2022
 Architect: Killa Design (Shaun Killa)
 Client: Dubai Future Foundation
 Built-up Area: ~30,000 m²
 Category: Experimental, immersive, futuristic museum
1. Concept & Design Philosophy
 The building represents futuristic
thinking and innovation, aligned
with Dubai’s vision.
 The form is symbolic:
o Oval / torus shape =
humanity
o Void in the centre = the
unknown future
o Calligraphy skin = vision
and hope
 Expresses parametric architecture, sustainability, and advanced digital fabrication.

2. Architectural Features (Futuristic

Elements)
a) Parametric Design

 Entire façade is generated through algorithmic parametric modelling.

 Structural grid follows complex 3D geometry (no straight lines).

b) Calligraphic Façade

 Stainless steel facade panels with Arabic calligraphy cut-outs.

 Acts as windows, allowing patterned daylight inside.
 Represents quotations about the future by Sheikh Mohammed.

c) Structural Innovation

 Built as a diagrid steel structure—over 1,000 diagonally intersecting members.

 The central VOID is structurally supported without internal columns.
 One of the world’s most complex steel-framed buildings.

d) Energy and Technology Integration

 Smart building systems

 VR/AR interactive exhibitions
 AI and robotics-integrated installations
 LEED Platinum certification

3. Interior Design
 Immersive, thematic floors → future of:
o Space exploration
 o Ecology & climate
o Health & well-being
o Future technologies & AI
 Interior spaces use soft organic forms, light-based installations, large digital surfaces.

4. Construction Techniques
 Prefabricated 3D steel nodes
 CNC-cut façade panels
 BIM + automation for precise geometry
 Robotic welding
 High-performance glass reinforced plastic (GRP)

SPACE & ASTRONOMY EXPERIENCE IN

MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE – SHORT NOTES
The Museum of the Future includes a dedicated Space & Astronomy Zone known as “OSS
Hope” — one of the most iconic and immersive sections of the museum.

1. OSS HOPE – ORBITING SPACE STATION

EXPERIENCE
 Visitors “travel” to a space station 600 km above Earth, set in the year 2071.
 The experience uses elevators simulated as space shuttles, producing a realistic
launch sequence.
 The narrative shows futuristic space missions, solar energy harvesting, and life-
support systems.

2. FUTURE SPACE HABITATS

Inside the space zone, the museum displays models and concepts of:

 Orbital colonies
 Space-based solar farms for renewable energy
 Asteroid mining stations
 Interplanetary communication networks
 Artificial-gravity habitats
 Futuristic propulsion systems

These installations explore how humanity may live and work in deep space by 2071.

3. EARTH OBSERVATION FROM SPACE

Visitors get large immersive projections of:
  Earth’s climate patterns
 Ocean currents and storms
 Atmospheric layers
 Data from satellites
 Global environmental change

This helps connect space technology with climate science, showing how satellites monitor
Earth’s geology and weather systems.

4. SOLAR SYSTEM & CELESTIAL RESEARCH

The museum includes:

 Interactive models of planets & exoplanets

 Future missions to Mars, Europa, Titan
 Displays showing how sun, radiation, magnetosphere, gravity affect life
 AI-assisted astronomy simulations

These help visitors understand future space exploration and planetary science.

5. SPACE SUSTAINABILITY
Important futuristic themes:

 Space debris management

 Reusable spacecraft technology
 Clean-energy propulsion
 Ethical space mining

This section teaches about the future challenges of space ecosystems.

6. TECHNOLOGY BEHIND SPACE TRAVEL

Interactive zones explain:

 Ion propulsion & nuclear propulsion

 Robotics in space repair
 Autonomous drones for asteroid mapping
 Holographic navigation interfaces
 AI-supported astronaut training

These displays blend engineering with immersive visualization.

Anti-Gravity Simulator (Mumbai Paradox

Museum) – Short Notes
1. What It Is

 A specially designed tilted room / gravity-defying chamber engineered to create the

illusion that:
o People can lean at impossible angles
o Objects roll “uphill”
o Water flows against gravity
o Humans appear to stand sideways or at 45° effortlessly

2. Science Behind It

The Anti-Gravity room works through:

a) Tilted Architecture

 Floors, walls, and ceilings are intentionally slanted (≈ 15–25 degrees).

 The body assumes gravity is vertical, but the space is actually off-angle.
 Creates perceptual conflict, causing balance loss or “gravity shift.”

b) Forced Perspective

 Visual cues (wall lines, window frames, flooring grids) are intentionally misleading.
 Your eyes read the room as straight, but your inner ear detects tilt → illusion.

c) Hidden Structural Supports

 Tilted beams and reinforced walls ensure safety.

 Furniture appears level but is also tilted.

d) Controlled Lighting

 Avoids shadows that reveal the true orientation of the room.