To the stars and towards Earth: Bangladesh's position in Astronomy and Space Science

Bangladesh must chart its own course in space science, aligning activities with national priorities. Photo: Courtesy

The thought-provoking question posed by the late Professor Abdul Jabbar in his book 'Tara Porichiti' – "What is the benefit of knowing stars?" – might initially sound dismissive. However, a closer look reveals profound advantages, both theoretical and practical, that understanding the cosmos and our place within it offers. Furthermore, examining Bangladesh's current standing and future potential in these vital scientific fields is crucial for our nation's progress.

My postgraduate studies in Advanced Techniques in Radio Astronomy and Space Science in Sweden provided me with a unique perspective: learning to observe the Universe from Earth (astronomy) and our own planet from space (remote sensing). Astronomy, at its core, is a systematic science dedicated to capturing and analysing information from the vast expanse beyond planet Earth. Similarly, remote sensing focuses on gathering and interpreting data related to Earth's surface, sub-surface, and atmosphere.

The immediate question that arises is: what tangible benefits do these fields offer us? Moreover, drawing upon my two decades of experience, it is essential to analyse Bangladesh's position in astronomy and space science. The primary aim of this article is to raise awareness among the current government and the public about the immense potential and current limitations in this critical domain.

Let's first consider astronomy. Like any fundamental science, astronomy cultivates a generation capable of critical thinking, fostering inquisitive minds that seek answers. These skills transcend scientific boundaries and can be applied across diverse disciplines. In today's research landscape, a significant portion of astronomical work involves data science. Consequently, astronomy students often develop into highly skilled data scientists and proficient programmers. Moreover, the automation techniques prevalent in astronomy find valuable applications in numerous other sectors.

On a more technical note, the very foundation of Wi-Fi technology lies in addressing a challenge encountered in radio astronomy. The need to detect faint radiation from celestial objects spurred the invention of the CCD camera, a technology that has since revolutionised fields ranging from medical imaging to surveillance. It's also worth noting that several universities in Bangladesh possess laboratories capable of opto-mechanical device simulation and fabrication, areas directly relevant to astronomical instrumentation.

Modern astronomical research is increasingly collaborative, involving hundreds, even thousands, of scientists working together on massive projects. Participating in such large-scale endeavours fosters crucial team management skills. Furthermore, astronomy acts as a "gateway science," igniting an overall interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) among students.

Currently, Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) offers an opportunity to study astronomy at the undergraduate level, with general astronomy courses available to students from all departments and the option to pursue a minor in the field. Students are actively involved in research projects and have already contributed to published research papers. The establishment of the Center for Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics (CASA) at IUB is nearing completion, promising to initiate both interdisciplinary research and postgraduate teaching. While CASA boasts the affiliation of numerous astronomers both within Bangladesh and internationally, a critical need remains: the recruitment of more astronomers at IUB to bolster teaching, research, and the publication of high-quality international research. Additionally, the Aviation and Aerospace University, Bangladesh offers postgraduate degrees in Satellite Communication and Space System Engineering, indicating a growing recognition of the importance of these fields.

Turning our attention to remote sensing, the deployment of satellites allows us to survey weather patterns, topography, river systems, and various other aspects of our planet. Remote sensing plays a vital role in mineral resource extraction, environmental conservation, and national security. While many developed and developing nations possess their own remote sensing satellites, Bangladesh currently relies on data acquired from other countries' satellites. This dependence means we are limited to the information provided and incur significant costs. In Bangladesh, activities in this domain primarily involve data collection through ground stations and subsequent analysis, largely conducted by the Space Research and Remote Sensing Organisation (SPARRSO). However, the term "space research" as it is understood internationally is not truly undertaken by SPARRSO or elsewhere in Bangladesh; their focus leans more towards conducting surveys. A detailed and informative discussion regarding SPARRSO's current standing can be found on the Science Bee Facebook page, offering insights into the reasons behind its current limitations.

Recent headlines announced Bangladesh's participation in the US space agency NASA's Artemis Accord, sparking initial optimism about the nation's foray into space research. However, a closer look reveals a more nuanced reality. While the accord signifies international collaboration, its primary focus — lunar and Martian settlement and resource extraction — doesn't directly translate to bolstering Bangladesh's immediate space science needs, particularly in remote sensing. The Artemis program is fundamentally a United States initiative with ambitious goals for future off-world habitation. While NASA may recruit talent from member nations, framing this as Bangladesh's "door to space research" overlooks the country's more pressing requirements in utilising space technology for national development. It's worth noting that Bangladesh is already affiliated with two other space-related organisations: the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organisation (APSCO), headquartered in Beijing, and the Asia-Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF). APSCO's members include countries like Iran, Pakistan, Thailand, and Turkey. However, Bangladesh's active role and tangible benefits within these alliances remain unclear.

Faced with this situation, Bangladesh must chart its own course in space science, aligning activities with national priorities. The successful launch of a nanosatellite by BRAC University students demonstrated the inherent potential within the country to develop remote sensing capabilities. Furthermore, the recent claim by a private entity, DhoomketuX, regarding indigenous rocket development, while lacking concrete details, underscores a burgeoning interest in space technology. This necessitates the urgent establishment of clear national policies and safety regulations for launching such vehicles.

Past endeavours, such as the significant investment in a satellite built with a French company, now appear to be a misstep, particularly when compared to the advancements of regional peers. Pakistan, for instance, has indigenously developed remote sensing satellites. A comparative analysis of the websites of Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmosphere Commission (SUPARCO) and Bangladesh's SPARSO starkly highlights the developmental gap. Similarly, examining the space agency websites of Vietnam or Thailand further emphasises the need for significant progress in Bangladesh's space sector.

A decade ago, the government recognised the importance of space science by including provisions for graduate-level education and research in the national science and technology policy. Regrettably, these ordinances have yet to be meaningfully implemented. The absence of formal space science education opportunities within Bangladesh remains a critical impediment. A key task for the current government will be to revisit and actively pursue the implementation of this long-standing policy.

In an era defined by the free flow of information technology, Bangladesh lags approximately fifty years behind comparable nations in space science. This is despite the presence of talented Bangladeshi students excelling in international competitions and a significant diaspora of young astronomers and space scientists contributing to research abroad. The nation's failure lies in its inability to harness this intellectual capital for domestic advancement.

The path forward requires a fundamental restructuring of the science education infrastructure, making it contemporary and relevant. Alongside formulating dedicated space policies and projects, Bangladesh needs to establish governmental infrastructure in both astronomy and space science. Initiating curricula in these disciplines within major public universities is crucial. This necessitates the strategic recruitment of teachers and researchers, both domestic and international, to build a robust foundation.

SPARSO, the national space agency, requires a complete overhaul and should be separated from the Ministry of Defense to foster a more focused and agile approach. A primary national mission should be the development of indigenous remote sensing satellites. This requires a collaborative effort, gathering specific remote sensing needs from various national agencies, including meteorology, agriculture, environment, geology, and water resources. Appointing qualified space scientists to a revitalised SPARSO will be essential for achieving self-sufficiency in this critical area, potentially leading to significant cost savings and even revenue generation through services offered to other nations.

Furthermore, establishing a national astronomical observatory in a suitable location, in consultation with the country's astronomers, is paramount. This observatory, managed by astronomers, will ensure the proper utilisation of previously acquired, but underused, high-cost telescopes. Creating a remote network connecting various institutions to these telescopes will democratise access for students and researchers nationwide.

Understanding the nuances of international collaborations like the Artemis Accord and the limitations of existing engagements allows Bangladesh to strategically determine its specific needs and forge a self-directed path in space science, ultimately benefiting national development and progress. It is now incumbent upon the government to take decisive steps to cultivate education and research in astronomy and space science, unlocking the nation's latent potential in this vital field.

In conclusion, both astronomy and space science offer significant benefits, from fostering critical thinking and technological innovation to providing crucial data for national development and security. While Bangladesh has taken initial steps in these fields, particularly in remote sensing data analysis and the nascent astronomy program at IUB, there is a clear need for greater investment and strategic focus. Understanding the nuances of international collaborations like the Artemis Accord and the limitations of existing engagements allows Bangladesh to strategically determine its specific needs and forge a self-directed path in space science, ultimately benefiting national development and progress. Establishing robust research institutions, recruiting and training skilled personnel, and potentially developing our own remote sensing capabilities are crucial steps to ensure Bangladesh can fully harness the power of understanding both the cosmos and our own planet for a brighter future. 

The time is now for Bangladesh to elevate its position in astronomy and space science and reap the substantial rewards that these fields offer. It is now incumbent upon the government to take decisive steps to cultivate education and research in astronomy and space science, unlocking the nation's latent potential in this vital field. After these extensive discussions, the initial question posed — "What is the benefit of knowing stars?" — now finds its answer. 

Dr Syed Ashraf Uddin is an Adjunct Faculty at American Public University System, USA and Associate Member of Centre for Astronomy, Space Science and Astrophysics at Independent University, Bangladesh 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.