Kota (Raj), Dec 2 (PTI) Models of Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, replicas of rockets and rovers, along with ISRO’s signature Space Science Bus, are attracting students in large numbers to a three-day space exhibition at the Rajasthan Technical University (RTU) here, officials said on Tuesday. The Vikram Sarabhai Space Exhibition from December 1-3 is being organized in association with ISRO’s Space Applications Center (SAC), Ahmedabad. Visitors can gain insight into India’s technological capabilities, with film screenings, mission screenings and direct interactions with ISRO scientists making the event an immersive learning experience, they said. The exhibition attracts school students in large numbers, officials said, adding that 688 students from 14 schools visited on the opening day. According to officials, ISRO’s Space Science Bus, models of Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, launch pads, radar systems and various satellite technologies are some of the main attractions. Additionally, various halls display replicas of rockets, rovers and mission components, while screening rooms show documentaries on India’s space capabilities. Students also get an opportunity to interact directly with ISRO scientists. Kota South MLA Sandeep Sharma inaugurated the event on Monday. RTU vice-chancellor prof. Nimit Chaudhary presided over the ceremony, with ISRO scientists Neha Gaur Mishra and Dr SP Vyas, Prof. Dinesh Birla and Registrar Bhavna Sharma who were present as Guests of Honour. Highlighting India’s growing global stature in space research, Sharma said that space remains one of the most intriguing frontiers of science. “India’s recent moon landing has placed the country prominently on the world stage,” he said. Vyas outlined ISRO’s journey — from the early days of carrying rocket parts on a bicycle to Chandrayaan-3 and the ongoing preparations for Chandrayaan-4 and the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission scheduled for 2028. Highlighting India’s cost-effective scientific progress, he noted that ISRO’s single 10-year budget outlasts India, but still reaches NASA’s budget. successes. Vyas emphasized that ISRO’s contributions extend far beyond its lunar and Mars missions, pointing out that the organization’s satellites support critical applications in agriculture, mineral exploration, disaster management, water resource mapping and environmental monitoring — all of which were showcased at the exhibition. RTU Vice Chancellor Chaudhary said the university aims to inspire young students and expose them to India’s growing space research landscape.