Indian Students Win Five Medals at International Astronomy Olympiad

Indian students secured five medals at the 5th International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics for Juniors 2026, including two gold, two silver, and one bronze. The National Council of Science Museums announced the results on Monday following the event held in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand, from November 1 to 8.

Winners

Siddharth Laxmisha from Puducherry and Swara Srujal Patel from Gujarat won the gold medals. Aarna Chaplot and Krish Bhaskar, both from Rajasthan, earned silver medals, while Akshara Gulab Ambone from Maharashtra took home the bronze medal. The five-member Indian team competed against 104 students from 25 countries.

Reactions

NCSM Director General K S Murali stated that the medals reflect the hard work and scientific aptitude of the students. Gold medallist Swara Srujal Patel credited the NCSM for providing essential guidance and preparation, while silver medallist Krish Bhaskar expressed a desire to become an astrophysicist.

Context

International science Olympiads bring together top young students from around the world to test advanced academic skills. The National Council of Science Museums manages the selection and training processes for these national teams in India.