The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram, hosted a Science and Technology Exposure Visit for students from Mercy College, Palakkad, on 11 September 2026. A total of 48 participants, comprising 41 students and 7 volunteers, participated in the visit. The students were pursuing B.Sc. programmes in Physics, Chemistry and Biotechnology.

The programme commenced with an interaction and an overview of IIST, its academic programmes, research activities and contributions to space science and technology. This was followed by visits to various research laboratories.

During the visit, the students explored four research facilities at IIST—the EMERALD Lab, X-Ray Diffraction Lab, ChemiSens Lab, and Atomic and Molecular Physics Lab. They had the opportunity to interact with faculty members, research scholars, and IIST students, gaining insights into ongoing research activities, advanced scientific facilities, experimental techniques, and their applications in various fields. The laboratory exposure helped the students connect their academic learning in Physics, Chemistry and Biotechnology with ongoing research and technological developments at IIST.

The visit was organised as an experiential learning opportunity to familiarise students with the research environment of a premier space science and technology institute and to encourage their interest in higher education, scientific research and technology.

The exposure visit provided the participating students with valuable insights into the academic and research ecosystem at IIST and served as an opportunity to inspire them to pursue further studies and careers in science and technology.