National Astronomy Challenge (NAC)
National Recognition & ISRO Visit
National Astronomy Challenge (NAC) is a competition by Stem and Space for students in Class 4–9, open to students across India.
Mode
Online
Eligibility
Class 4–9
Fee
₹250
Duration
60 minutes
Format
Individual
Time needed
Approximately 1 hour for the online examination, plus preparation time.
About This Opportunity
The National Astronomy Challenge (NAC) is India's largest Olympiad focused on Astronomy and Space Science, organized by Stem and Space. This online competition aims to inspire young learners, develop their understanding of astronomy and space science, and foster a competitive spirit. It provides a platform for students to explore celestial phenomena, planetary science, and the physics of space.
Students in Grades 4 to 9, typically aged 9 to 15, are eligible to participate. The challenge is open to students across India and overseas who have a keen interest in astronomy and space sciences. Participants can register through their schools, or individual students can register directly if their school is not participating.
Participants will gain valuable knowledge in astronomy, astrophysics, and integrated STEM subjects. Top performers receive national recognition, awards, and unique opportunities such as visits to ISRO facilities and leading space start-ups. All participants receive certificates, and comprehensive study materials are provided to aid in preparation.
The competition emphasizes critical thinking through image-based, video-based, and application-based multiple-choice questions. It encourages students to apply their understanding of astronomical concepts to real-world scenarios, offering an engaging learning journey beyond a traditional examination.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 4–9
- Age Range
- 9 - 15 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Academic requirement
Students must have a keen interest in astronomy and space sciences.
Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of science concepts relevant to their grade level
This competition is open to students in Grades 4-9 (ages 9-15) across India and overseas. Participants should have a strong interest in astronomy and space sciences. Registration can be done through schools or directly by parents.
Does your child qualify?
WiWit checks eligibility against your child's class, age, and location, and finds more opportunities like this one.
Academic Details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including celestial phenomena, planetary science, the physics of space, gravitational forces, light spectra, and the expanding universe. It integrates STEM subjects like mathematics and engineering relevant to spacecraft design and orbital mechanics, providing a holistic learning experience.
Rewards & Recognition
Prizes
Awards, Medals & ISRO Visit
Top performers receive national awards, medals, and unique opportunities including visits to ISRO facilities and leading space start-ups, fostering real-world exposure to space science.
Certificate
Certificates of Participation/Merit
All participants receive Certificates of Participation. High scorers receive Merit Certificates. School Champions receive Excellence Certificates, all recognized by Stem and Space.
Opens doors to
Provides a strong foundation and competitive edge for admissions to higher education programs in STEM, particularly astronomy and physics, laying groundwork for future academic pursuits.
Career pathways
Inspires and prepares students for future careers in space exploration, scientific research, and technology development, offering exposure to leading organizations like ISRO and space start-ups.
Recognition
National Recognition
Skills your child builds
Exam format
- Total marks
- 100
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Format
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) including image-based, video-based, and application-based questions.
- Language
- English
Rounds & format
The competition consists of a single online examination round.
How entries are judged
Participants are evaluated based on their performance in the MCQ-based online exam. Scores determine national and school-level champions. A negative marking of 25% is applied for each incorrect answer.
Selection process
Selection is based on scores achieved in the online MCQ exam. Top performers are recognized as national and school-level champions.
How to apply
- 1Students can register through their schools via a custom registration link provided by NAC.
- 2Parents can register their child directly on the NAC website if their school is not participating.
- 3All registration information must be filled accurately.
- 4Documents such as school ID or Aadhar card may be required for verification purposes.
How to prepare
- Access to immersive, multimedia-driven, grade-appropriate study materials through Cosmic Kids Club (now Spacetopia).
- Live webinars, monthly activities, and quizzes.
- Interactive content, videos, and comics on the Spacetopia platform.
- Self-paced free workshops powered by Stem and Space.
Fees & financial support
Fee details
The registration fee for Indian students is INR 250 + GST (approximately INR 300) for school registrations. For direct registrations by parents, the fee is INR 500 + taxes. For overseas students, the fee is USD 8. The highest fee is INR 500 + taxes.
Refund policy
Details regarding the refund policy are not explicitly provided and should be confirmed on the official NAC website.
Frequently asked questions
Is National Astronomy Challenge (NAC) free?
₹250 registration
Who can participate in National Astronomy Challenge (NAC)?
Students in Class 4–9. children aged 9-15.
What will my child gain from National Astronomy Challenge (NAC)?
National-level recognition and awards for top performers. Opportunity to visit ISRO facilities and space start-ups for national champions. Certificates of Participation for all students and Merit Certificates for high scorers. Access to comprehensive, grade-appropriate study materials and engaging activities. Development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific temperament. Exposure to astronomy, astrophysics, and integrated STEM concepts. Networking opportunities with scientists and educators. Free access to self-paced workshops and content from Stem and Space.
Share with other parents
Is this the right fit for your child?
WiWit matches opportunities to your child's class, interests, and skills, not a generic list. Save this and get reminders before the deadline closes.
Categories
WiWit
Don't miss what your child actually qualifies for
There are hundreds more opportunities like this one. WiWit matches them to your child's class, interests, and skills, so you find the right ones without searching through everything.
- Matched to your child's class, age, and interests
- Deadline reminders so you never miss registration
- Every opportunity verified before it's listed
Related Opportunities
Antariksha National Space Quiz
by Antariksh Society
The Antariksha National Space Quiz is an online competition for Indian students in Standards 3-10, designed to enhance space science knowledge and foster future STEM skills. Participants can compete individually or in school teams for national recognition and exciting awards.
What your child could gain:
All India Astronomy Quiz by Aryabhat Foundation for Madhya Pradesh Students
by Aryabhat Foundation
The All India Astronomy Quiz, organized by Aryabhat Foundation, is a two-tier competition promoting astronomy and space science for school students in Madhya Pradesh.
What your child could gain:
Avanti Fellows JEE/NEET Free Coaching Program
by Avanti Fellows
Free online and in-person JEE and NEET coaching for academically strong government school students from low-income families across India.
What your child could gain: