Type Research institution Website http://www.prl.res.in Director J. N. Goswami | Established 1947 Founded 1947 Director Tapan Misra | |
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Location Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India Address Near Gujarat University, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009 Hours Open today · 10AM–8PMFriday10AM–8PMSaturday10AM–8PMSundayClosedMonday10AM–8PMTuesday10AM–8PMWednesday10AM–8PMThursday10AM–8PMSuggest an edit Similar Ahmedabad Textile Industry's, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Tata Institute of Fundame, Raman Research Institute, Lalbhai Dalpatbhai College o |
The Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) is a National Research Institute for space and allied sciences, supported mainly by Department of Space, Government of India. This research laboratory has ongoing research programmes in astronomy and astrophysics, atmospheric sciences and aeronomy, Earth sciences, Solar System studies and theoretical physics. It manages the Udaipur Solar Observatory and is located in Ahmedabad.
Contents
Known as the cradle of space sciences in India, the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) was founded on 11 November 1947 by Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. PRL had a modest beginning at his residence, the RETREAT, with research on cosmic rays.
The institute was formally established at the M.G. Science Institute, Ahmedabad, with support from the Karmkshetra Educational Foundation and the Ahmedabad Education Society. Prof. Kalpathi Ramakrishna Ramanathan was the first Director of the institute. The initial focus was research on cosmic rays and the properties of the upper atmosphere. Research areas were expanded to include theoretical physics and radio physics later with grants from the Atomic Energy Commission.
Today PRL is actively involved in research, related to five major fields of science. PRL is also instrumental in the PLANEX planetary science and exploration programme.
Research
PRL research encompasses astrophysics, Solar System and cosmic radiation.
Academics
The Physical Research Laboratory holds various seminars and public lectures. It has a workshop, computer centre, library and various other laboratories. It also offers a five-year doctoral programme in physics, with specialisations in theoretical physics and complex systems, outer space and atmospheric sciences, quantum optics and quantum information, astronomy and astrophysics (infrared, sub-mm and radio astronomy, Solar physics, planetary and geosciences). The admission is through a written test and interview.
National awards
The research institution offers national awards to scientists who have made outstanding contributions in the field of science and technology. The awards presented are: