The Junior Age

Year: 2024

Mission Successful First-Ever Civilian Spacewalk 

The Polaris Dawn SpaceX mission has created history by successfully conducting the first ever “all civilian” and commercial spacewalk. An American billionaire, Jared Isaacman has become the first non-professional astronaut to do a spacewalk as a part of this mission. 

 

Also read Earth’s Missing Ring: What Happened to Our Saturn-Like Halo?

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This was the first spacewalk ever managed by private companies instead of a government. Jared Isaacman blasted off with three other people, mission pilot Scott Kidd Poteet and SpaceX engineers Anna Menon and Sarah Gillios. The SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn crew spent five days in orbit. The Polaris Dawn crew reached an unprecedented altitude of approximately 1,400 km above the Earth’s surface. The four-member civilian team travelled further into space than any humans for more than fifty years.

 

Watch Full Video on #AdityaL1 : India’s First Sun Mission | All You Need To Know About India’s Mission to the Sun

Earth’s Missing Ring: What Happened to Our Saturn-Like Halo?

According to recent research published in Earth and Planetary Science Letters, approximately 466 million years ago Earth may have had rings like Saturn. Experts believe that the ring of debris developed after a near collision with a large asteroid. The researchers also believe that the ring system may have influenced Earth’s climate by casting a shadow and blocking sunlight. A team of scientists at Monash University, Australia, studied 21 big asteroid impact craters on Earth and they noticed a pattern.

 

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The team mapped out where all these craters would have been when they first formed. They noticed that they were all very close to the equator – within 30 degrees of it – not randomly scattered across the planet as one might expect. 

 

Also read Checkout India’s Spacecraft That Will Take Humans To Space

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Experts say that this pattern could be explained by a ring system. They suggest that a large asteroid had a close encounter with Earth, which resulted in it breaking up around our planet, forming a debris ring – similar to the rings seen around planets like Saturn.

 

 

Watch Full Video on, #IndiaOnMoon : Over the Moon – Chandrayaan -3, India’s Successful Lunar Mission

Ghostly Games: Fun Halloween-Themed Activities for Kids

Junior Ghostbusters! 🎃 Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s time to get into the spooky spirit with some super fun activities! Whether you’re planning a party or just looking for something to do with friends and family, we’ve got some awesome Halloween-themed games that will have everyone giggling and gasping! Let’s dive in!

Also Read What Is Halloween & Why Do We Celebrate It?

1. Mummy Wrap

What You Need:

  • Toilet paper (a few rolls)
  • A timer

How to Play:

  1. Divide into teams of two.
  2. One person from each team gets wrapped up like a mummy using toilet paper while their teammate races against the clock.
  3. Set a timer for 1 minute. The team that wraps their mummy the best before time runs out wins!

Image Credit : feelgoodevents.com.au

2. Ghostly Scavenger Hunt

What You Need:

  • Halloween-themed items (like plastic spiders, mini pumpkins, or candy)
  • Paper and pencils

How to Play:

  1. Create a list of Halloween items to find around your house or yard.
  2. Give each player a list and set them off to find as many items as they can within a set time (like 10 minutes).
  3. The player who finds the most items wins a spooky prize!

Image Credit : romper.com

3. Witch Hat Ring Toss

What You Need:

  • Witch hats (you can make them out of paper)
  • Rings (you can use glow sticks or plastic rings)

How to Play:

  1. Set the witch hats up at different distances.
  2. Players take turns tossing rings over the hats.
  3. Give points for each hat that’s successfully ringed. The player with the most points wins!

Image Credit : 24countries.com

4. Pumpkin Bowling

What You Need:

  • Small pumpkins (about the size of a bowling ball)
  • Empty plastic bottles (to use as bowling pins)

How to Play:

  1. Set up the bottles in a triangle formation.
  2. Players take turns rolling a pumpkin toward the pins.
  3. Count how many pins each player knocks down. The player with the highest score wins!

Image Credit : frostedevents.com

5. Spooky Story Circle

What You Need:

  • A cozy spot to sit
  • Your imagination!

How to Play:

  1. Gather in a circle with your friends or family.
  2. Start telling a spooky story, but stop after a sentence or two.
  3. Pass it to the next person to add on. Keep going until everyone has added to the tale!
  4. You can even make it funny instead of scary. Let your creativity run wild!

Image Credit : istockphoto.com

6. Monster Freeze Dance

What You Need:

  • A speaker for music

How to Play:

  1. Play some fun Halloween music.
  2. Everyone dances like a monster while the music plays.
  3. When the music stops, everyone must freeze in their best monster pose!
  4. Anyone who moves is out. The last one standing is the Monster Dance Champion!

Image Credit : kidspot.co.nz

Watch Full Video On Haunted History – Fun Facts About Halloween

These ghostly games are sure to bring lots of laughs and a little friendly competition this Halloween! Gather your friends and family, and let the spooky fun begin. Remember, the most important part is to enjoy yourselves and make lasting memories. Happy Halloween! 👻🎉

The End of an Era: Farewell To Kolkata Trams 

The government of West Bengal has announced that the iconic Kolkata trams will be discontinued soon, due to vehicular traffic. However, no specific date has been announced to discontinue the service.

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However, a solitary heritage tram will be operated from Maidan to Esplanade. The very first horse driven trams were introduced in 1873 in Calcutta (now Kolkata), the then British capital. The issue of the tram service is currently pending before the Calcutta High Court and the government has said that it will respect the court decision. 

Did You Know? Kolkata is the only city left in India that still operates. On February 20, 2024, the Kolkata tram  celebrated its 150th anniversary.

Watch full video on Interesting Facts About Dussehra | Fascinating Story Behind Dussehra

Ramlila Performances in India for Kids: A Journey Through Myth and Culture

Ramlila, the enchanting theatrical representation of the epic Ramayana, is a beloved tradition in India. Celebrated especially during the festival of Dussehra, Ramlila performances are not only entertaining but also rich in cultural significance. If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and engaging experience for your kids, Ramlila performances are the perfect opportunity to introduce them to India’s rich mythology and heritage. In this blog, we’ll explore what Ramlila is, its significance, and where to find kid-friendly performances across India.

Watch full video on Interesting Facts About Dussehra | Fascinating Story Behind Dussehra

What is Ramlila?

Ramlila, which translates to “the play of Rama,” is a dramatic retelling of the Ramayana, focusing on the life of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his loyal companion Hanuman. These performances combine acting, dance, music, and elaborate costumes, creating a vibrant spectacle that captivates audiences of all ages. Typically performed in open spaces during the night, Ramlila brings communities together, celebrating values like courage, righteousness, and the triumph of good over evil.

Why Ramlila is Great for Kids

  1. Cultural Awareness: Ramlila offers a window into Indian mythology, allowing children to learn about important stories, characters, and moral lessons in an entertaining format.
  2. Imagination and Creativity: The colorful costumes, dramatic storytelling, and lively music spark creativity and imagination in kids, encouraging them to engage with the arts.
  3. Moral Lessons: Through the trials and tribulations of Lord Rama, children learn about bravery, honesty, and loyalty, imparting valuable life lessons that are relevant even today.
  4. Social Experience: Ramlila is often a community event, providing a wonderful opportunity for children to socialize, make new friends, and share experiences with families.

Where to Experience Kid-Friendly Ramlila Performances in India

1. Best Ramlila In Delhi

Delhi hosts some of the most spectacular Ramlila performances, especially in areas like Chandni Chowk and Ramlila Maidan. Many performances are designed with families in mind, often featuring engaging narratives that are perfect for children.

2. Ramlila’s In Varanasi

The spiritual city of Varanasi offers Ramlila performances that are steeped in tradition. The performances are usually held in temples and open grounds, and the unique local flavor adds an extra layer of excitement for kids.

3. Ram Leela from Ayodhya

As the birthplace of Lord Rama, Ayodhya is a must-visit during Dussehra. The Ramlila here is grand, often involving the participation of local schools and children, making it a family-friendly affair.

4. Ramlila In Kolkata

In Kolkata, Ramlila is celebrated with great fervor, particularly in neighborhoods like Kumartuli. The performances often include elaborate sets and costumes, capturing the imagination of children and adults alike.

5. Jaipur’s Ramlila

Jaipur’s Ramlila performances are known for their vibrant costumes and intricate storytelling. The city organizes special shows for children, making it a fun outing for families during the Dussehra festival.

Tips for Attending Ramlila with Kids

  • Explain the Story: Before attending, give your kids a brief overview of the Ramayana. This will help them understand the characters and events as they watch the performance.
  • Arrive Early: Getting there early will allow you to find good seats and enjoy the festive atmosphere before the show begins.
  • Engage with the Performers: After the show, encourage your kids to meet the performers, ask questions, and learn more about the art form.
  • Bring Comfortable Seating: Outdoor performances can last a while, so consider bringing foldable chairs or mats for your family’s comfort.
  • Enjoy Local Snacks: Many Ramlila venues have food stalls. Treat your kids to some local snacks to enhance the experience!

Ramlila performances are an incredible way for children to connect with India’s rich cultural heritage. By attending these performances, kids not only enjoy a captivating theatrical experience but also gain insights into timeless stories and moral values. So, gather your family, plan your visit, and let the magic of Ramlila open the door to a world of imagination, tradition, and learning. This Dussehra, make unforgettable memories with your children through the spectacular art of Ramlila!

Also Read, Dussehra : A Celebration Of Victory!