This abstract evaluates a 3-year pedagogical framework by the Hosur Astronomy Club & TASS for grades 9–12 in urban and rural Government Model Schools in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu. Moving beyond basic stargazing, our experiential curriculum teaches optical mechanics via hands-on tool manipulation (Foldscopes, Spectroscopes, Gyroscopes), transitioning to a student-led mini-laboratory with tracking kits. This model, paired with facility visits and asteroid search campaigns, triggered documented cognitive shifts. We observed heightened inquiry skills, active scientific journal engagement, and community unification via inter-faith night-sky events. Astronomy proved an ideal bridge between physics, social equity, and philosophical curiosity.

Biography:

Suresh Kumar is the founder of the Hosur Astronomy Club and a Krishnagiri District coordinator with the Tamilnadu Astronomy and Science Society (TASS) in India. He previously established the club in 2017 to spread astronomy knowledge to school children across urban and rural sectors. His research interests include experiential learning methodologies, Astronomy education for all, community-led mini-laboratory kits, and the synthesis of physical space science with socio-cultural philosophies like astronomy for mind Health