Students at the Karangasem Islamic Boarding School in Lamongan, Indonesia, showcased a unique blend of faith and science at the recent IAKA Ponpes Karangasem 2026 Campus Expo. The event, held january 25th, featured an exhibition by Caskapal, the school’s astronomy club, demonstrating practical applications of both modern astronomy and traditional Islamic timekeeping practices known as falaq. The display, which included a student-built telescope and tools for determining prayer times and lunar cycles, highlights a growing movement to integrate STEM education with cultural and religious values in Indonesian schools.
Enthusiastic visitors at the Caskapal exhibition. (Wahidul Qohar/PWMU. CO)
An exhibition showcasing the work of Caskapal (the Karangasem Paciran Lamongan Islamic Boarding School Astronomy Club) was a major attraction at the IAKA Ponpes Karangasem 2026 Campus Expo on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
The event, held at the Karangasem Islamic Boarding School, drew attendees from diverse backgrounds, including students, teachers, parents, and members of the general public. Promoting science literacy, particularly in the fields of Islamic astronomy and related sciences, is increasingly recognized as important for well-rounded education.
Caskapal is a student astronomy club dedicated to developing science literacy, specifically in the areas of Islamic astronomy and *falaq* (Islamic jurisprudence of timekeeping). The exhibition featured a variety of educational tools and projects demonstrating the observational learning, practical application, and basic research conducted by the students.
A handmade telescope prototype was among the most popular exhibits, captivating visitors with its potential for observing celestial objects. The telescope served as a hands-on learning tool, allowing students to explore astronomical objects like the moon and planets while introducing them to direct scientific observation methods.
In addition to the telescope, Caskapal displayed several educational *falaq* instruments, including a *qibla* compass, an astronomical calendar, a wind direction board, and a sun-based *qibla* direction finder. Students use these tools in practical exercises to determine prayer direction and study timekeeping relevant to daily life.
The exhibition also included a lunar crescent sighting tool and eclipse viewing glasses, demonstrating that astronomy education at the boarding school extends beyond theory to practical and culturally relevant applications.
All the instruments were systematically arranged with clear explanations of their function and use, helping visitors understand the connection between astronomy, *falaq*, and religious practice. Many attendees engaged in enthusiastic discussions and sought further information about the exhibits.
Through the Caskapal exhibition, Ponpes Karangasem demonstrated its commitment to fostering a scientific tradition among its students.
Organizers hope the event will increase student interest in science and research, cultivating a generation of knowledgeable, critical thinkers who are competitive while upholding Islamic values. (*)
